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A 

HISTORY 

07 

LONG ISLAND 

FROM ITS FIRST SETTLEMENT BY EUROPEANS, 
TO THE YEAR 18-15, 



SPECIAL REFERENCE TO ITS ECCLESIASTICAL CONCERNS. 
IN TWO PARTS. 

I. ITS PHYSICAL FEATURES AND CIVIL AFFAIRS. 

O. ANNALS OF THE SEVERAL TOWNS, RELATING CHIEFLY TO ECCLESIASTICAL 
MATTERS, 



BY 

NATIIANJ&L & Ptfl&E 



NEW* YORK: 

ROBERT CARTER, 58 CANAL STREET; 
AND P1TTSBUBG, 56 MARKET STREET. 







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Entered according to the Act of Congress, in the year 1845, by 

ROBERT CARTER, 

In the Clerk's Office of the District Court for the Southern District of New- York. 



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S><\ 






H. LUDWIG, PRINTER, 




70 & 72 Vesey street. 






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PREFACE. 



A history of Long Island, with special reference to its in- 
tellectual, moral, and religious condition, from its first settle- 
ment to the present time, is confessedly a desideratum. If 
well executed, it cannot foil to be deeply interesting and in- 
structive to the present inhabitants of the island, and their 
numerous kindred, scattered as they are, in almost every part 
of this wide-spread land. The tide of emigration, from this 
strand in the sea, has been much greater than is generally 
imagined, You can scarcely go into any quarter of the 
country, without finding those who were natives of this island, 
or who proudly claim descent from those that were. With all 
such, it has long been a maxim, that " even a Long Island 
dog is a welcome guest." The clannish feeling probably exists 
in greater strength in no part of our country, than among the 
natives and descendants of Suffolk County. The writer has 
been literally embraced by a perfect stranger in the forest, and 
bid welcome to his cabin, merely because, as he said, " 2" am 
from Long Island, and I understand you are." And this same 
man, who had learned by a long residence in the wilderness, 
to despise the God of his fathers, and neglect the gospel of 
his Son, was willing to travel miles on foot, again and again, 
to hear the message of salvation from the lips of a native of 
his native isle ; and even professed to yield his heart to the 
obedience of faith. Whether sincere or insincere — deceiving 
or deceived, the case illustrates the position assumed. 

Nor is it to the natives of the island or their descendants 
alone, that such a history will be interesting and instructive. 
It is a part of the country, which, till within a few years, was 
scarcely known to non-residents. It was so far removed — so 
difficult of access, and presented so few inducements to 
wander through its forests, and wade through its sands, that 
for the space of 200 years it has remained, in a great measure, 
terra incognita, to almost the whole world. It is true, that 
most people have learned from their geography and maps, 
that there is such an island, stretching along the broad At- 
lantic, defending the city of New York and the whole shore 



IT PREFACE. 

of Connecticut from the fury of the ocean waves ; and they 
have heard a thousand exaggerated stories of the ignorance 
and simplicity of its inhabitants. And it must be confessed, 
that the insular situation and other physical obstacles, have 
necessarily operated to limit the views and retard the progress of 
the mind, when confined to such narrow boundaries. In this 
respect it is true, that in the views of the islanders generally, 
the affairs of this wide world are drawn on a somewhat con- 
tracted scale. And it is equally true, that from their non- 
intercourse with the cunning and dishonest men of the world, 
(for be it known, that a consummate rogue is about as rare 
an animal as a wolf on Long Island,) they are an unsuspect- 
ing people, and are perhaps more easily over-reached than 
those, who are more eonversant with the ways of the world. 
But for good common sense, sound judgment, and general 
information, so far as it may be obtained trom books and oral 
instruction, they are not inferior to the mass of population, in 
any equal portion of the state. 

In this connexion, and in confirmation of the preceding 
remarks, it is worth while to correct another common mistake, in 
regard to the ignorance even of letters, that is supposed to 
on Long Island. For this purpose, reference is made to the 
United States census of 1840, from which it appears, that of the 
entire white population of the nation, amounting to 14,189,105, 
there are 549,093 persons over 21) years of age, who cannot 
read and write. The average of these for Suffolk County 
would be more than 1250. And yet according to the same 
census, there are only 14 individuals of this unhappy class, in 
this whole county. The number is indeed greater in the other 
two counties, where there has been a greater influx of foreign 
population ; viz., in Queen's 458, and in King's 958, of whom 
881 are in the city of Brooklyn. But this tells a story for Suf- 
folk County, which is generally regarded as the chief seat of 
ignorance, that is told of no other county in the Slate of New 
York, and of very few counties of equal population in the 
most favoured parts of New England. 

While therefore such incorrect views of the people of Long 
Island are entertained abroad, and very extensively too, such 
a history as is here contemplated, is more important for non- 
residents, if they really wish correct information on the sub- 
ject, than for the inhabitants of the island themselves. 

General histories of the early settlement and progress of 
this territory are indeed extant. The Honourable Silas 
"Wood, whom the writer is proud to acknowledge as his towns- 



PREFACE. V 

man, and the friend and counsellor of his childhood and youth, 
we are indebted for the first detailed history of this interesting 
field. The track thus ably struck out, has been laboriously- 
pursued by Benjamin F. Thompson, Esq., who, in addition 
to much important information, has laid before the public eye, 
a great mass of ancient documents, which cannot fail to be 
both interesting and useful. 

When this work was rirst undertaken, it was the writer's 
intention to confine himself exclusively, to the ecclesiastical, 
or moral and religious history of the island. But after pur- 
suing his researches, for some time, with reference to this 
specific object, he became convinced, that some general out- 
line of the physical features, civil divisions, progressive im- 
provement, and other topics of secular history were indispens- 
able, to enable the reader to appreciate the condition, and 
form a correct opinion of the intellectual, moral and religious 
state of the inhabitants. In addition to this, it is believed, 
that some of these topics have never received that attention, 
which their peculiarity and importance demand ; while 
others are sufficiently indicative of the genius and character 
of the people, to merit notice in their religious history. Un- 
der this conviction, remarks have been extended on these 
several topics, to such a length, as to suggest the propriety of 
dividing the work into two distinct parts ; devoting the one 
to matters chiefly of a secular character, and the other more 
directly, though not exclusively, to the ecclesiastical annals of 
the several towns. 

But unfortunately for the -writer, if not for the public, the 
work has undergone yet another modification, which he feels 
bound to state, as an apology for the present form in which it 
appears. After committing it to the press, he found, that by 
a previous miscalculation as to the amount of the manuscript, 
it could not be comprised within the bounds of a reasonable 
volume. It therefore became necessary to remodel entirely 
the Second Part of the work. In doing this, as the least loss 
to the reader, the. detailed history of the rise and progress of 
the various religious denominations on the island, which would 
have occupied more than 100 pages, was necessarily com- 
pressed into the brief abstract, which appears on pages 1'25 — 
30. In addition to this, the annals of the towns, were in 
many particulars abbreviated, to make room for the introduc- 
tion of some historical sketches, which are essential to a correct 
view of their religious condition. 

It was originally intended, to give a brief outline of the 



VI rHEFACE. 

life and character of the various ministers who have spent 
their lives in the services of these churches, in years gone by. 
But a deficiency of the materials furnished, and the necessity 
of contracting the work, have prevented the execution of the 
design, except in a few instances. 

It will be observed, that in this compilation, no reference is 
made, except incidentally, to the events of the American re- 
volution. Though many of these, of a deeply interesting 
character, occurred on the island, they are faithfully recorded 
in almost every history of the country. For this simple 
reason, it was deemed needless to burden the present work 
with their detail. Here and there, a fact has been noticed, as 
illustrative of the position of a place, or the condition of its 
inhabitants. 

In collecting his materials, the author acknowledges his in- 
debtedness to the laborious works already referred to, and 
also to a number of his clerical brethren, who have con- 
tributed important aid. Of these he feels bound to name the 
following gentlemen : — the Rev. Jonathan Huntting — the 
Rev. Abraham Luce — the Rev. Christopher Youngs— the Rev. 
Joseph A. Cipp — the Rev. Hugh N. Wilson — the Rev. 
James C. Edwards — the Rev. Marmadule Earlc — the Rev. 
Henry J\I. Heart — the Rev. James Macdonald — the Rev. 
Jonathan Gretnleaf — and the Rev. Samuel M. Haskins. But 
without depreciating the kindness of any, the author is con- 
strained to acknowledge himself under special obligations to 
Alexander Gardiner, Esq. of the city of New York, both 
for the value of his aid, and the very kind and polite manner 
in which it was rendered. This gentleman, upon barely seeing 
the author's circular in a newspaper, immediately transmitted 
to hitn a MSS. history under the title of the " Chronicles 
of Eastiiami'ton," which had been compiled with great 
labour and research, by his lamented father. From this 
source, have been derived some of the most interesting annals 
of aboriginal history, as well as many important facts in re- 
lation to the eastern towns. 

In addition to the works previously named, the author ac- 
knowledges his indebtedness to Smith's — Dunlap's, and Von 
Der Donk's Histories of New York — Moulton's View of New 
Orange, in 1678 — Dr. Strong's History of Flatbush — Fur- 
man's Notes of Brooklyn — Gen. Johnson's Lectures, transla- 
tions and communications in manuscript — the Rev. Mr. Fai- 
toute's MSS. History of Jamaica — the Rev. Air. Garretson's 



PREFACE. vU 

Sermon, and several other pamphlets that cannot be particu- 
larly mentioned. 

In availing himself of the aid of these and other sources 
of information, it has been impracticable to give distinct cre- 
dit for every fact or sentiment derived from previous writers, 
especially where it appeared desirable to abridge, or make a 
slight variation of language, or different arrangement of ideas. 
For these reasons, quotations have not been distinctly marked, 
except where a sentence or paragraph has bee$> taken entire. 

Though the author has particularly aimed at correctness in 
regard to dates, of which he has detected not a few errors in 
former publications, he will not venture even to hope, that he 
has been entirely successful in this particular. There may 
be also mistakes in point of fact, though he assures his readers, 
that he has made no statement, but upon his own personal 
knowledge, or on information which he had reason to believe 
was entitled to full credit. But as different minds admit facts 
on different degrees of evidence, it is possible, that even here, 
some errors may be detected. The correction of these, from 
any authentic source, will be esteemed a favour. 

The writer has been at the expense of having a Miniature 
Map of Long Island engraved, (which will be found fronting 
the title page,) to enable the reader to form a correct idea of 
the relative position of the several towns and counties. 

Relying on the indulgence of the reader, this humble 
attempt, to record the annals of this island of the sea, is 
submitted with all its imperfections, to the attention of the 
public. 

N. S. PRIME. 
WUliamshurgh, L. I., Oct. ICth, 1845, 



ERRATA. 

In consequence of the haste with which these sheets have passed 
through the press, a number of small typographical errors have escaped 
notice, which the knowledge of the reader will readily correct. Two, only 
have been observed, which need to be distinctly pointed out. 

In the schedule, on page 12l, the population of King's County, in 1815, 
should read 78,691, and the aggregate population of Long Island, 145,119. 
On page 290, in the last line of the note at the bottom, for word, read 
wonder. 



CONTENTS. 



PART I. 

CONTAINING A PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION OF THE ISLAND, ITS CIVIL DIVISIONS, 
PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS, STATISTICS, ETC. 

Page. 

Section I. — Names, Form and Situation, - 1 — 5 

Section II. — Its Appendages — Islands, .... 6 

The Great South Beach ; p. 8 — Question as to the enlargement 
or diminution of the Island, p. 9. 

Section III —Remarks on its geological structure, surface, soil, 

forests, <$-c ....10 

Dr. D wight's Observations, [p. 10. — Correspondence of materials 
on the Island and the Main, p. 12. — Hypothesis, p. 13 — Great 
difference of Surface, Soil, &c, between the North and South 
Sides, p. 14 — Hills, p. 15. — Plains — the Great Hempstead Plain, 
p. lb— Pine Plains, p. 19.— Forests, p. 19 — Deer, Wild Fowl, 
and other game, p. 20. — Reptiles, p. 22. 

Section IV. — Its waters — inland and adjacent; promontories, 

$c .23 

Springs and streams of water, p. 23. — Rivers ; Connecticut, 
p. 25. — Peconick, p. 26. — Ponds; Success, p. 27. — Ronkon- 
kama, p. 29. — Other smaller ponds, p. 30. — The Ponds on Mon- 
tauk, Quannontowunk, Konkhonganock and Great Pond, p 34. 
— Large Pond on Shelter Island, p. 35. — Promontories, p. 36. — 
Harbours, p. 37. — Bays, 38. — Great South Bay, Sand-bar, Dis- 
astrous Shipwrecks, p. 39. 

Section V. — Its Climate, Diseases, $-c 41 

Peculiar prevalence of Tetanus, p. 45 — Numerous Instances of 
Longevity, p. 46. — Two anomalous cases of Disease, p. 47. 

Section VI— Th* Roads, - 52 

Numerous and difficult for the Stranger, p. 52. — Turnpikes, p. 
54. — The Rail-road, p. 55. — Changes produced, p. 57. — Grade 
of the Road at its several points, p. 59. — Conflagrations of 
Forests, p. 59. 

Section VII. — Civil and Political Divisions, with some Remarks 
on the Genius and Character of the People, in the several 

Districts, their Husbandry, #c. 60 

Most of the Towns first attached to the New England Colonics, 
p. 60. — Division of the Island between the Dutch and English by 
the Treaty of Hartford in J 650, p. 61 .—Attempt of the Dutch to 
subject the whole Island to their authority in 1673, p 61. — First 
Legislative Assembly in the Province of New York in 1683, p. 
62. —Different manner in which the Eastern and Western Towns 
were settled, p. 62-3.— Chronological order of the Settlement of 
these Towns, p. 64. — Patriotic Spirit of the Inhabitants and 
Trials, p. 65. — King's County, p. 67. — Queen's County, p. 68. — 
Suffolk County, p. 72. 



X CONTENTS. 

Page. 

Section VIII. — Literary Character, 80 

Schools, early established and well taught, p. 80. — Academies, 
first erected in the state, p. 83. — Learned Professions, p. 84. — 
Newspapers, p. 85. 

Section IX. — Spirit of Toleration, ------ 86 

Quaker persecution by the Dutch government not sustained by 
the people, p. 86. — Trials for Witchcraft, p. 88. 

Section X. — The Aborigines of the Island, .... 90 
Originally 13 Tribes, p. 90. — Montauk, the royal tribe, and Wy- 
andanch, Grand Sachem, p. 91. — Fortifications and Burying 
Grounds, p. 91. — Curiosities, p. 92. — Friendship of Wyandanch 
for the white people, p. 93. — L. I. Indians formerly very numer- 
ous, p. 93. — Diminished by wars, p. 94. — Never conspired against 
the white settlers, p. 95. — Battle of Fort Neck not to be regarded 
as an exception p. 96. — Still further diminished by pestdence, 
p. 99.— Wyandanch died in 1659, p. 99. — Succeeded by his son, 
Weoncombone, in his minority, who died in 1662, p. 100. — In. 
dians further diminished by strong drink, p. J 01. — Now only a 
few remnants, mingled with African blood, p. 101. — Manufac- 
tures of the Aborigines, p. 102. — Their ancient religion, p. 102 — 
Early attempts to give them religious instruction, and their entire 
failure, p. 103. — Rev. Azariuh Morton, the first successful Mis- 
sionary, p. 104. — His indefatigable labours, p. 104 — 8. — His 
character, p. 109. — Rev. Sampson Occum, sent to the Indians in 
1753, p. 110.— Sent to England m 1765, p. 110-1 1.— Removes 
to Brothertown in 1786, where he died, p. 11 1. — His character, 
p. 112.— Rev: Peter John, p. 114.— Rev- Paul Cuffee, p. 115.— 
Rev. William Benjamin, present pastor, p. 1 18. — Aggregate rem- 
nants of the L. I. Indians, p. 118. — Present aspect of Montauk, 
p. 120. 

Section XI.— Statistical Tables, 121 

1. Population at different periods. — 2. Classification by the 
Census of 1840, according to occupation, &c. — 3. Aggregate 
population of different ages, showing the proportion between the 
sexes, at three different periods of human life, of both the white 
and coloured. — 4. Comparative population of Long Island, and 
the city of New York, the State, and the United States. — 5. The 
number of domestic animals, with some productions of their 
growth or labour, from the Census of 1840. — 6. Agricultural pro- 
ductions. — 7. Additional items from the Census ol ld45. 

PART II. 

containing a sketch of the various religious denominations occupying 
the island ; AND the annals of the several towns, with special re- 
ference TO THEIR ECCLESIASTICAL CONCERNS. 

Sketch of religious denominations, 125 

ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. 

Suffolk County. 

Section I.— Southold, 130 

Other parishes; Greenport, p. 135 — Orient, p. 136. — Cutchogue, 
p. 138.— Mattituck, p. 142.— Franklin ville, p. 144.— Sketch of 
the Rev. James Davenport's erratic course, p. 116. 



CONTENTS. Xi 

Section II. — Riverhead, .... ... 150 

Upper Aquebnguc, p. 152. — Lower Aquebogue, p. 154. — James, 
port, p. 156.— Northville, p. 156 — Bating Hollow, p. 157. — 
Wading River, p. 158. — L. I Convention, p. 151). 

Section III.— Shelter Island, 161 

Remarks on the endowment of churches, p. 164. — Whitefield's 
Tour on Long Island, p. 167. 
Section IV. — Easthampton, - . - - . . .170 

Section V— Southampton, - 187 

Other parishes; Bridgehampton, p. 199.— Sag Harbour, p. 208. 
— Shinnecock Neck, p. 216 — Canoe Place, Good Ground, 
Flanders, and Westhampton, p. 217. 
Section VI. — Brookhaven, --.-... 221 
Setauket, p. 222. — Stony Brook, 226. — Port Jefferson, and Old 
Mans, p. 226.— Moriches, p. 228.— Poosepatuck, p 232 Fire- 
place, p. 233— Bellport, and Patchogue, p. 234.— New Village, 
Coram, and Middletown, p. 236.— Brookfield, p 237. 

Section Vll.—Smithtown, 240 

Section VIII — Islip, 245 

Section IX— Huntington, 248 

Cold Spring, Centre Fort, p. 260.— Freshpond, p. 261.— Winne. 
Comack— West Hills— Sweet Hollow, p. 262.— Babylon, p. 263. 

QUEEN'S COUNTY. 

Section X. — Oystcrbay, - . 264 

Cold Spring Harbour— Buckram, p. 271.— Glen Cove— Cedar 

Swamp— Wolver Hollow, p 272.— Jericho, p. 273 Woodbury, 

p, 276.— Bcthpage— Farmingilale— Oysterbay South, p. 277.— 
Plain Edge, or Turkey ville, p. 278. 

Section XI. — Hempstead, , 279 

Foster's Meadow— Far Rockaway— Near Rockaway, with its 
monument, p. 287— Hick's Neck— Raynor South— Merick— 
Newbridge— Jerusalem, p. 291.— Plain Edge, p. 292. 

Section XII — North Hempstead, ...... 292 

Hempstead Harbour, p. 293.— Westbury— Manhasset, p. 294.— 
Lakeville, p. 295. « r 

Section XII I. — Flushing, 296 

Section XIV. — Newtown, 299 

Astoria— Maspeth— Middle Village, p. 306. 

Section XV. — Jamaica, - 307 

KING'S COUNTY. 
Section XVI. — Flatbush, ------.. 321 

New Lots, p. 328.— East New York, p. 329. 

Section XVl[—Flatlands, 331 

Section XVlll.—Graveicnd, ....... 333 

This town not originally settled by Quakers, as has been so often 
asserted, p. 335.— That Lady Moody ever embraced the Quaker 
system a matter of doubt— time of her decease unknown, p. 336. 

Section XIX — New Utrecht, - - 340 

Section XX.— Bushwick, 342 

Records of its early settlement, p. 342-3.— Interference of the" 
English Governor in religious matters, p. 345. 



Xll CONTENTS. 

Page. 

Section XXI.— Williamsburgh, - - 348 

Increase of population, p. 348 — its ferries, p. 349. — Public 
schools, p. 351). — Lyceum, 351. — Churches, p. 3.V2 — Demoraliz- 
ing influences of the city, p. 356. — Union of evangelical chris- 
tians, p 356. 

Section XXI [.— Brooklyn, - 357 

Commencement of its settlement, p. 357. — Annals of the Jovsen 
family, p. 360. — Manner of first settlement, p. 362 — population 
at different periods, p. 363. — Incorporation under Village and 
City Charter, 364. — " Brooklyn City Hall," p. 364. — Late in- 
crease of population, p. 365. — Navy Yard, p. 367. — Remains of 
Americans from Prison ships, p. 367. — Suggestion as to their re- 
moval, p. 368.— Greenwood Cemetery, p. 368.— Ferries, p. 369. 
—Controversy with New York, p. 270 — Location and dates of 
the several ferries, p. 376.— successive improvements, p. 377. — . 

Rates of ferriage, p. 379. — Literary institutions, p. 380 — Church- 
es, p 3^2 — Reformed Dutch Church, p 383 — Episcopal 
Churches, p. 385 —Presbyterian, p. 388.— Baptist, p. 3W>.— 
Congregational, p. 391. — Methodist Epis, p. 3 ( J2. — Other Meth- 
odists, p. 394 — Coloured churches, p. 395. — Roman Catholics, p. 
395 — Friends and other sects, p. 396. — Defunct churches, p. 
397. — Remarks thereon, p. 4U4. 

Conclusion, -.-„ 404 

Appendix, - - - - - - - - - -411 

Statistics of various Denominations. 

Congregational Churches, 411 

Presbyterian, - - - - - - - - - - 412 

Reformed Dutch, 413 

Episcopal 414 

Methodist Episcopal, 415 

African Methodist, - - - - - - * - 416 

Baptist, - 417 

Swedenborgians, -.- - 417 

Roman Catholics, 418 

Temperance Documerft, ..-.---- 418 



HISTORY OF LONG ISLAND. 



|PART I. 

CONTAINING A PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION OF THE ISLAND, ITS 
CIVIL DIVISIONS, PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS, STATISTICS, ETC. 

SECTION I. 

Names, Form and Situation. 

Long Island unquestionably derived its distinctive name, 
from the form of the territory to which it is applied. It ob- 
tained several different appellations from the aborigines, which 
appear to have been used on different occasions, or by differ- 
ent tribes. Of these, the following are of frequent occur- 
rence : — Paumanacke, Mattanwacke, Meitowax, and Sewan- 
hacka. The last, meaning " the island of shells," was pecu- 
liarly appropriate ; as the shores and bays abounded, from 
time immemorial, with various kinds of shell-fish, the relics 
of which, accumulated in large mounds by the natives, re- 
main to the present day. 

Its present name was early applied by the European set- 
tlers. But in 1693, some years after the province was brought 
under the British government, the name was changed, by an 
Act of the Colonial Legislature, to the " Island of Nassau." 
And, to insure its adoption, it was enacted, that " all grants, 
patents, deeds, conveyances, bargains of sales, bills, bonds, 
records and other writter ^truments," made in any coun- 
ty, part or place of said Island, should recognise this name. 
Sanctioned by this high authority, but in opposition to popu- 
lar sentiment, the name obtained only a partial and temporary 
currency ; and though the Act was never repealed, it was 
soon permitted to be regarded as obsolete. 

Long Island is situated between 71° 47' and 73° 57' west 
longitude from Greenwich, and is about 125 miles in length 



2 FORM AND SITUATION. [PART 1, 

from the most western point, near Fort Hamilton, in the town 
of New Utrecht, to Montauk Point, in the township of 
Easthampton.* Its greatest breadth is about 20 miles ; and 
this point lies some 35 miles from its western extremity. Its 
average breadth is about 12 miles, and its whole area is a lit- 
tle short of 1500 square miles. This admeasurement, how- 
ever, does not include the South Bay and the outer beach. 
From the point of its greatest breadth, it gradually diminishes 
both ways ; the western part retaining a width from 18 down 
to 9 miles. The eastern part, at the distance of 75 miles 
from the west end, where its breadth is about 13 miles, is di- 
vided into two great branches, by a large bay, interspersed 
with islands, extending from the Atlantic Ocean, and gradu- 
ally diminishing as it proceeds up into the land. The length 
of this bay, from Montauk Point, to its head, is about 45 
miles ; and its greatest breadth between the two branches of 
the Island, about 12 miles. 

Although the Island is so narrow, and its southern coast re- 
markably straig-ht, yet in consequence of its inclining consid- 
erably from a due east and west line, it occupies, in its whole 
extent, about 36' of latitude; being situated between 40° 34' 
and 41° 10' north. This, of course, embraces all the adja- 
cent islands that are included under its jurisdiction. Its gene- 
ral line of direction, from Fort Hamilton to the head of the 
great bay, is about 1 5° north of east. 

But a more definite idea of its relative position may be ob- 
tained, by considering its topography, in relation to the city 
of New-York, and the shore of Connecticut. A line drawn 
due south from the City Hall, w.uild pass through the Island, 
about a mile and a half east of Fort Hamilton, and in its 
continuation, cuts off the west end of Coney Island, which, 
with the exception of a small part of Pelican Beach, lying a 
few miles east, is the most southerly portion of Long Island. 
The distance from the City Hall to the south shore, on the 
above line, varies very little from 10 miles. 

A line drawn due east from the City Hall enters the Island, 
near the foot of South Fifth-street, in the village of Williams- 
burgh ; leaving almost the whole of King's County on the 
south. Proceeding east, it passes about three-fourths of a 

* From time immemorial, the length of the Island has been said to be 
140 miles. The length of time required to travel over a large portion of 
it has probably had an influence in forming that estimate. It is believed, 
if an exact admeasurement were made, it would be found not to exceed 
120 milea 



8ECT. 1.] FORM AND SITUATION. 3 

mile north of the village of Jamaica, intersects the Jericho 
turnpike, a short distance beyond the turnpike-gate. A 
little east of this point, it crosses the Long Island Railroad, 
passing through the great Hempstead Plain, and leaving the 
greater part of Queen's County on the north. Gradually ap- 
proaching the south side, it passes about a mile and a half north 
of Babylon ; crosses the mouth of a stream in the town of Islip, 
called Connecticut Brook, and enters the great South Bay at 
a point about 48 miles from the west end. Passing through 
the bay, it intersects the great South Beach, and enters the 
Atlantic Ocean, nearly south of a point where the Connecti- 
cut (Connectquot) River empties into Fire Place Bay. This 
point is about 60 miles from the western extremity of the Isl- 
and. Thus the whole of Suffolk County, excepting about 30 
square miles of its southwestern corner, lies north of the City 
Hall. 

The northern shore of Long Island, with the exception of 
several deeply-indented bays, and corresponding projections 
of peninsulas or promontories, commonly called Necks, is 
quite uniform in its general line of direction. But the Con- 
necticut shore, gradually receding, forms between it and the 
Island, that well-known expanse of water called Long Island 
Sound. From the city of New- York, north and eastward, the 
strait, usually, though incorrectly, called the East River, pro- 
ceeds about 14 miles, where it gradually widens into the 
Sound, which extends to Fisher's Island, opposite Stoning- 
ton in Connecticut. It is about 100 miles long, and its 
greatest breadth, which is opposite New Haven, more than 20 
miles. From this point, it gradually diminishes both east 
and west. 

The two branches of the Island at the east, formed by the 
great mediterranean Bay previously mentioned, differ some- 
what, both in length and breadth. The southern branch, 
through the greater part of 30 miles, is from 6 to 8 miles 
in width. About 8 miles east of the head of the Bay, it sud- 
denly becomes so narrow, that the waters of the bay on the 
south side, are separated from the interior bay, by an isthmus 
of sand, but little elevated above the level of the sea, and less 
than half a mile wide. This place, called by the Indians 
Merosuck, has, from the early settlement of the country by 
the whites, borne the characteristic name of " Caiyoe 
Place ;" as it was a favourite harbour for the craft of the 
aborigines, and the place at which they readily transported 
their canoes, from one bay to the other. Proceeding 4 



4 FORM AND SITUATION. [PART 1, 

miles east from this spot, the land gradually widens, and 
rises into large hills of sand, some of which attain the height 
of more than 100 feet. These are called the Shinnecock 
Hills, and are seen at a great distance at sea, by vessels ap- 
proaching this part of the coast. With' the exception of a 
few small necks of land lying on the waters, this whole tract 
is perfectly sterile. Passing over the hills, the land again 
widens to 6 and 8 miles, principally of a productive quality, 
till you arrive within 15 miles of the extremity. Here com- 
mences a low sand beach five miles in length, and from one 
to two in breadth, leading to the peninsula of Montauk.* 
This is an elevated, undulating tract of good land, formerly 
abounding with wood ; 9 miles in length, and nearly 3 miles 
wide at its broadest point, containing 9000 acres. The eastern 
extremity, called by the Indians Wamponomon, now known 
as Montauk Point, is elevated about 100 feet above the sur- 
face of the ocean. This is the site of the Light-house, erected 
by the United States in 1795 ; the lantern of which is 98 feet 
from the ground, and nearly 200 feet above the sea. This 
is the most easterly part of the whole island, being 15 or 20 
miles longer than the other branch. 

Returning to the head of the great inland Bay, the northern 
branch of the Island commences with a breadth of 5 or 6 
miles ; which, gradually diminishing for 20 miles, is suddenly 
reduced to the width of one or two miles. Continuing with 
some variation, about 5 miles further, a narrow beach inter- 
venes, leading to a peninsula, similar to that just described, 
on the southern branch, though smaller in its dimensions. 
This peninsula, called by the Indians Poquatuck, and by the 
English, Oysterponds, till the more classic name of Orient was 
devised, is about 5 miles long, and one mile or a little more in 
breadth. The land is slightly elevated, and of an excellent qual- 
ity. The eastern extremity is about 30 miles from the head of 
the bay, and bears the name of Oysterpond Point. The range 
of islands lying east of this, which belong to the jurisdiction of 
Long Island, as well as those in the several bays and straits, 
will be noticed hereafter. 

Taking this brief description of Long Island, it will be 
perceived, especially with the help of the map, that it bears a 
strong resemblance to the outline of a large fish ; and though 

* The genuine Indian name was Montauk-ett ; the ett being a com- 
mon adjunct in the language of the aborigines, on the island and the 
main. For example ; — Amagans-ett, Narragans-ett, Senecos-ett, &c. 



8ECT. 2.] ITS APPENDAGES. 5 

the profile is confessedly imperfect, the resemblance, especially 
if we include the great South Beach as a part of the outline, 
is much more striking, than is to be found in most of the 
celestial constellations, which have been formed by astrono- 
mers. 

SECTION II. 

Its Appendages. 

The name of Long Island includes under it, not only the 
territory which has been briefly described, but numerous is- 
lands, beaches and sand-sprits, which lie in the adjacent 
waters. 

The largest of these is Shelter Island, (containing 9000 
acres,) called by the aborigines Manhansack-ahaquashu-wor- 
nock ; said to mean, an island sheltered by islands. It was first 
named, by the English, Farrefs Island, which originated in 
the following circumstances. On the 22d of April, 1636, 
at the solicitation of Charles I., the Plymouth Company 
gave to William Alexander, Earl of Stirling, a patent 
covering the whole of Long Island and its appendages. In 
the following year, the Scottish Earl gave a power of attorney 
to James Farret, constituting him his agent, for the sale and 
conveyance of all the lands included in his patent ; at the 
same time authorizing him to take possession of, and oppro- 
priate to his own use, 10,000 acres, in any part of the island 
that he chose to select. Farret, soon after his arrival, made 
choice of Shelter Island, together with Robbin's Island. Hence 
the former was called after his name. Some 12 years after, 
Farret sold his possessions to Nathaniel Sylvester ; from 
which circumstance it was, for some time, called Sylvester's 
Island. At length, however, it obtained its present name, 
from the translation and abbreviation of the Indian appel- 
lation. 

This name is peculiarly appropriate, as it lies in the Great 
Bay, between the two eastern branches of Long Island, which 
have been described, nearly half way from its head to Mon- 
tauk. This island is somewhat irregular in shape, being ser- 
rated with alternate bays or coves and necks of land. Its 
greatest length is 6 miles, its greatest breadth about 4, and its 
area about 14 superficial miles. It is separated from the pro- 
jecting necks of the two branches of Long Island by two 
straits, each of which is about half a mile wide. Thus, Shel- 
ter Island divides the Great Bay into two parts, The interior 



6 ITS APPENDAGES. [PART 1. 

or western part is called the Peconick Bay. This again is 
subdivided into the Great and Little Peconick. The eastern 
part, within Gardiner's Island, is called Gardiner's Bay. 

Robbin's Island lies near the middle of the Great Peco- 
nick Bay, about 6 miles west of Shelter Island, and contains 
about 400 acres of land. For more than a dozen miles, this 
bay is from 3 to 5 miles wide. 

Cedar Island is a small mound of sand, lying about a 
mile southeast of Shelter Island ; covered with a few cedar 
trees, bushes and coarse grass, elevated a little above the sur- 
face of the water. It is worthy of notice only as being the 
site of a Light-house, erected in 1833, to mark the entrance to 
the port of Sag Harbour, from which it is distant in a north- 
easterly direction about 3 miles. 

Gardiner's Island, called by the Indians MonshonocTc, 
(pronounced Monshongonock,) and by its original proprietor 
the "Isle of Wight," is 10 miles east of Shelter Island, be- 
tween 3 and 4 miles from the south branch of Long Island, 
and 15 miles from Montauk Point. It is of an irregular form, 
and, including a long beach running off to the northwest, the 
extremity of which is within 5 miles of Oysterpond Point, it 
is full 6 miles in length, and contains, to the water's edge, 5 
superficial miles. In municipal jurisdiction, it constitutes a 
part of the town of Easthampton, on the southern branch. 
This island, which has always been retained in the Gardiner 
family, by entailment, till that relict of feudalism was annihi- 
lated by our statutes, was purchased and taken possession of 
by the original proprietor, Lyon Gardiner, in 1639, previously 
to any permanent settlement being made in any part of the 
island comprehended within the present counties of Queen's 
and Suffolk. And here Elizabeth Gardiner, the first child of 
British parentage, within the entire province of New York, was 
born, Sept. 14, 1641. 

From Oysterpond Point, there is a succession of islands, 
running in a north-easterly direction, the last of which lies 
within 3 or 4 miles of the Connecticut shore. These are 
Plum Island, (not Plumb,) the Great and Little Gulls, and 
Fisher's Island. Some, if not all of these, probably once 
formed a part of the northern branch of Long Island, to which 
they are attached in jurisdiction. Plum Island is now sepa- 
rated from Oysterpond Point by a strait of a mile and a half 
in breadth, through which the tide, both at ebb and flood, rushes 
with resistless fury. A person cannot stand on the shore and 
witness the constant abrasion of the sweeping torrent, without 



8ECT. 2.] ITS APPENDAGES. 7 

yielding to the conviction that this tract of land was once at- 
tached to the main island ; and what strengthens this con- 
viction, is the fact, that the peninsula of Oysterponds would 
long ere this have become a distinct island, but for the con- 
stant vigilance, and sometimes vigorous exertions of its in- 
habitants, to arrest the encroachments of the tides and storms, 
even though its isthmus is much better defended from the in- 
flux of the ocean than that of Plum Island could ever have 
been. 

Plum Island contains at present about 800 acres, and is in- 
habited by only three families, including fifteen individuals. 
A Light-house was erected herein 1827 to mark the passage of 
the strait between it and Oysterponds, which is called Plum 
Gut. The surface of this island is very stony, and has no 
wood, except a small pine swamp. 

The Gull Islands lie in a north-easterly direction, about 
two miles from Plum Island. They are little more than two 
heaps of rocks imbedded in the sand, the larger presenting a 
surface of a dozen acres, and the other scarcely one. On the 
latter, which is the most easterly, a Light-house, erected in 1 825, 
constitutes one of the most important beacons on our extended 
coast, as the passage between this and Fisher's Island forms 
the principal entrance from the ocean into Long Island Sound. 
This strait is about three miles in breadth, and is called the 
Race, from the immense velocity of the tide. 

Fisher's Island, the most north-easterly of the territorial 
appendages of Long Island, is about eight miles long, and of 
an average breadth of nearly three-fourths of a mile ; contain- 
ing five or six superficial miles. It lies directly opposite the 
towns of Croton and Stonington, in Connecticut ; between 
three and four miles distant from the nearest point of each. 
This island is still occupied by a single proprietor, and sustains 
a very productive dairy and large flocks of sheep. All these 
Islands, extending from Oysterpond Point, form a part of the 
most easterly township on that branch of the island, making 
it about forty miles in length.* 

* A few years ago, a farmer of this town was visiting a friend in Orange 
county, who knowing the small farms usually cultivated on the east end 
of the island, appeared to take a great deal of satisfaction in leading his 
visiter through his dairy, exhibiting his firkins of butter and piles of cheese, 
and ever and anon exclaiming, *• You can't do this in Southold." At 
length he took him into his fields to see a flock of 4' or 500 sheep, exult- 
ing as before, " You can't do this in Southold." Said (he visiter, "One 
of our farmers of Southold told me the other day that he had sold 1100 
lambs this season, and that he has 300 more ready to be sent off in a few 



8 ITS APPENDAGES. [PART 1, 

There are many other islands belonging to the municipal 
jurisdiction of Long Island ; as Hog-Island in Oyster-Bay, 
Riker's Island, and the Two Brothers, in the Narrows, about 
two miles east of Hurlgate, belonging to Newtown ; and 
many others lying on the south side, in the Jamaica, Hemp- 
stead, and Great South Bay. 

But one of the most peculiar features of Long Island is the 
Great Sand Beach, which forms its southern barrier against 
the fury of the ocean. This beach in some places, as on other 
parts of the Atlantic coast, constitutes the shore of the Is- 
land. But through the greatest part of the distance, for 
nearly one hundred miles, it is entirely detached from the 
main land, forming a large bay, from one to five miles in 
breadth. This beach is remarkably uniform in its structure 
and dimensions, varying from a quarter to a half mile in 
breadth ; although, by the force of the waves, it is constantly 
undergoing slight changes. It is composed entirely of fine 
white sand, driven up by the sea to high water mark ; n.nd 
then, as the tide recedes, and the sand becomes dry, it is drift- 
ed, like snow by the wind, into numerous hillocks and hanks, 
some of which rear their heads twenty or thirty feet above the 
level of the adjacent waters. These hillocks are kept from 
blowing away, by numerous tufts of coarse grass, which, as the 
sand accumulates, gradually grow upward, and by their in- 
creasing roots confine the sand. Nor is this drifting of sand 
confined to the beaches ; you occasionally meet with it in 
fields that were once cultivated, but are now entirely desti- 
tute of all vegetation, from being covered several feet deep by 
drifted sand. And in the town of Easthampton, there are 
now hills of sand, on the very site of some of the dwellings 
reared by the first settlers of the town. 

Some parts of this beach, with the islands which it encom- 
passes, bear a few scraggy, stinted trees ; but in general, it 
produces no vegetation, except a coarse, wild grass, sparsely 
scattered over its barren wastes, and now and then a clump 
of bushes, whose germ has been fortuitously conveyed to this 
desolate strand. Coney Island, the most western portion of 
this great barrier, presents most of the characteristic marks 
of this beach throughout its whole extent. East of this is 
Pelican Beach, connected with Barren Island; and then 
Rockaway beach, which, with the preceding, forms Jamaica 

days ; and he makes butter and cheese in about the same proportion." 
H« had reference to the proprietor of Fisher's Island. 



SECT. 2.] ITS APPENDAGES. 9 

Bay. The next in order is Hog Beach, encompassing another 
"Hog Island." Then comes Long Branch, which forms Hemp- 
stead Bay. East of this is Jones' Beach, next Oak Island 
Beach, and then the Great South Beach, which extends more 
than half the entire length of the island, forming the Great 
South Bay. Between these successive strands there are of 
course, several openings called inlets, through some of which 
coasting vessels of considerable burden can pass. From the 
most eastern of these passages, called Fire Island Inlet, (where 
is a Light-house,) to the inlet into Shinnecock Bay, a distance 
of more than 40 miles, the shore is almost a continuous straight 
line. Though its edges are slightly indented and projected by 
the constant moving of the restless waters, its general course 
remains unchanged. This beach in its continuance eastward 
attaches to the main land, forming Shinnecock Bay, Me- 
cock's Bay, and some other bodies of water, called ponds, 
which have no constant connexion with the ocean, except in 
times of violent storm, or extremely high water. They some- 
times become so full of water as to render it necessary to 
make an opening through the beach, which is easily done, 
and after the waters are discharged, it is soon filled up with 
sand from the ocean waves. 

It is a question of some interest, and upon which different 
opinions are entertained, whether the territory of Long Island 
is, or is not constantly diminishing. There is no reason to 
doubt, because there is ocular demonstration of the fact, that 
the high banks along the northern shore, and at the east end, 
are constantly wearing away by the waters ; and frequently 
are so far undermined, as to occasion large avalanches from 
above. The high bluff of Montauk has, in this way, been 
perceptibly diminished, within the recollection of the present 
generation. And from the rocky bottom of the adjacent wa- 
ters, the supposition is not improbable, that this branch of the 
island once approximated, if it was not actually joined, to 
Block Island. But while in some places, the sea is evidently 
encroaching on the land, in others, very considerable acces- 
sions are made to the shores, by the vast quantities of sand 
cast up by the waves. This is obvious in some of the beaches 
formed on the Sound ; but still more manifest on the south 
coast. Though the great beach retains from year to year, its 
general features, it suffers partial changes after almost every 
violent storm. But the sand that is torn from one place 
will generally be found deposited in another. And in some 
parts, this increase of the land appears to be permanent. It 

1* 



10 GEOLOGICAL STRUCTURE, [PART 1, 

is a remarkable fact, that at the first settlement of Easibamp- 
ton, the skeleton of a whale was discovered on Neapeague 
Beach, partially imbedded in the sand near the sea, which still 
remains, but is now nearly a mile from the shore. There are 
other, though not as decisive evidences of the extension of the 
land, in other parts of the island. But within the harbours 
and bays, particularly the great South Bay, there is the most 
conclusive evidence of the gradual formation of necks and isl- 
ands. The process is gradual, but constantly progressive. 
The motion of the water produces, first shoals of sand, then 
marshes, which begin to bear a coarse grass, that aids the ac- 
cumulation of foreign materials, till, at length, you behold a 
vast expanse of meadow covered with salt grass. It is worthy 
of notice, that in the remarkable law-suit between the town 
of Huntington and the Nicoll's estate, in relation to some of 
these islands, commenced in 1305, it was proved, that not only 
wonderful changes had taken place in the Great South Beach, 
within a little more than a century, but that "as late as 1773, 
the Fire Islands, now lying in the bay, were a mere sand-sprit, 
producing only a few patches of coarse grass." Such are 
some of the facts, on this point, from which it is difficult to 
determine with precision, whether the land or the water is 
making the greater strides. 



SECTION III. 
Remarks on its geological structure, surface, soil, forests, fyc* 

When we consider the retired situation of Long Island, and 
how little it has excited the notice of travellers, it is not sur- 
prising, that its geological character, as well as other peculiari- 
ties, should have remained so long unexplored. Until quite 
recently, very few scientific men have even deigned to give 
it a passing notice ; though the assertion may be safely haz- 
arded, that scarcely any other tract of land, of equal extent 
on the American continent, furnishes more abundant room for 
the imagination of geologists to play upon ; or that imposes a 
stronger necessity of conjecturing the operation of some tre- 
mendous agency, which, in its freaks, had invaded the do- 
mains of both the land and the ocean ; and after completing 
its sport, had silently retired, without leaving a track to de- 
termine its origin, or identify its form. 

Dr. Dwight, late President of Yale College, was probably 
the first, who condescended to take a tour of the island for 

1 



SECT. 3.] SURFACE, SOIL, FORESTS, ETC. 11 

the purpose of examining its physical features with a sci- 
entific eye ; and though he made it his object " to examine, 
with a continual and minute attention, the stones of every 
size which should be visible, through all the parts of his pro- 
gress," and, " this examination was extended to the stones on 
the general surface ; to those washed out in hollow roads ; 
to those uncovered on the summits and sides, and at the bot- 
tom of hills ; to those found in the deepest valleys, and to 
those which were dug out of a considerable number of very 
deep wells ; " yet, it is obvious, that a series of observations 
thus hastily made, on a single tour, would afford very scanty 
materials, on which to form a correct opinion of its general 
geological character. It might indeed afford ground for the 
inference, which has been generally deduced, from a very 
slight examination of its component materials, that the greater 
part of Long Island is of alluoial formation, using the term 
in its broadest sense. There is not an unlettered farmer, who 
has lived three score years, on the margin of the harbours or 
bays of the island, but can testify, that he has beheld with 
his own eyes, the growth, both in extent and perpendicular 
height, of the meadows and marshes, which already occupy 
an aggregate surface of 116 square miles, or nearly 75,000 
acres, and are annually increasing. And it is easy for the at- 
tentive eye to observe the agency of the winds and waves, in 
carrying forward this remarkable process. But these forma- 
tions, large as they are now, and vast as thsy may yet become, 
are only appendages of the island. And while it is manifest that 
a large portion of the materials, of which the body of the 
island is composed, "appear as if worn by the long continued 
attrition of water, and, in all respects, exactly like those, 
which, in a multitude of places, were found on the beach of 
the ocean ; " yet it is equally^ obvious, that they could never 
have been brought to their present position, by the same or- 
dinary and limited agency, which has produced, and is still en » 
larging, the meadows in the bays, and the beaches on the sea. 
Besides this, it is believed, that there is a considerable por- 
tion of the component materials of Long Island, which bear 
no decisive marks of having been long subjected to attrition 
by water. Dr. Dwight indeed expresses the opinion, that 
even every granite rock which he examined, (except on Mon- 
tauk) gave "plain proofs of having been washed for a con- 
siderable length of time, and strongly resembled rocks of the 
same kind, which have been long beaten by waves." But 
with his characteristic candour, he adds, " 1 will not say, that 



12 GEOLOGICAL STRUCTURE, [PART 1, 

no other traveller would have considered these rocks as ex- 
ceptions." 

In addition to all this, it will be noticed, that subsequent in- 
vestigations and examinations have proved, beyond all dispute, 
that as you proceed from one end of the island to the other, the 
changes which take place in the rocks and other materials found 
on its northern shore, correspond with no variation of order, 
and very little in extent, with those situated on the main land, 
north of the sound, and its connecting straits. Thus the 
Jersey free-stone, is frequently met with, on the western parts 
of the island. The gneiss and hornblende rocks, which cha- 
racterize the islands and northern shores of the strait called 
Hurlgate, exist in situ, in the vicinity of Astoria, or the north 
western shore of Newtown. The granite, quartz and lime- 
stone of Fairfield county in Connecticut are to be found in 
Queen's County and the western parts of Suffolk, the red sand- 
stone which abounds in the vicinity of Newhaven is to be 
traced in Brookhaven, while the granite of the eastern parts 
of Connecticut, in its numerous varieties, as it extends to 
Rhode Island, is found on the eastern parts of Long Island. 

From all these considerations, the inference has been re- 
garded as legitimate, that -Long Island, was once, through its 
whole extent, attached to the main ; and some powerful agen- 
cy, the form of which is now left entirely to conjecture, 
forced the separation, which is now marked by the interven- 
ing Sound. One of the most plausible suppositions is, that 
the separation has been effected by some resistless torrent of 
water, which, under peculiar circumstances, that it is impos- 
sible now to determine, has swept out the intervening land, and 
left its channel to be occupied by the waters of the ocean. 
But a comparison of the shores of Connecticut and Long 
Island affords little reason to suppose that they were ever 
joined, by so wide an interval of low flat land. The identity 
of their characteristics, already noticed, forbid the supposition : 
and to suppose that the mountains, hills and strata of rocks 
on the north of the Sound, once continued across its whole 
breadth, would entirely exclude the possibility of the change 
having been produced by water. 

Though the writer makes no pretensions to skill in the sci- 
ence of geology, yet as guessing is not the exclusive privi- 
lege of those living on the north side of the Sound, he will 
venture to suggest an hypothesis of his own, in relation to the 
origin of his native isle. One or two preliminary remarks, 
however, will be made. 



SECT. 3.] SURFACE, SOIL, FORESTS, ETC. 13 

The first is, that a comparison of the materials, and the 
comparative height, as well as the surface of the north and 
south sides of Long Island, plainly suggest that they originated 
from different situations. The whole of the southern half, 
from the surface down to the lowest point to which excava- 
tion has been made, bears the most incontestible evidence, 
that every stone, and pebble, and grain of sand, of which it is 
composed, had been long worn by the action of the waves : — 
while the northern half, at least on and near the surface, is in 
many respects destitute of this evidence. — Again ; the south- 
ern half, from the termination of the hills near the middle, pre- 
sents to the eye the appearance of a dead level ; but which, 
upon a minute examination, is found to be an inclined plain, 
gradually descending from 100 or 150 feet down to the level 
of the sea ; while the northern half exhibits an elevated sur- 
face, broken up into hills and valleys, and in its materials as 
well as form, claiming affinity with the southern shore of Con- 
necticut. 

And now for the conjecture ; suppose at some distant pe- 
riod, far back in the lapse of by-gone time, (and 6000 years 
are sufficient, without 6 long days of indefinite length for 
the beginning,) a strip, some 6, 8, or 10 miles wide, of the 
southern shore of the main, was, by an earthquake, or some 
other delegated agent of Omnipotence, broken off and set in 
motion in a southerly direction ; the different parts advancing 
with a velocity differing according to the nature of the sub- 
stratum, upon which they proceeded. Though the moving 
mass would naturally be broken, and some of its most elevat- 
ed portions be depressed, yet it might still be expected to re- 
tain somewhat of its former altitude. But, while thus pro- 
ceeding towards the depths of the ocean, the vast quantities 
of stones, pebbles and sand lying at the bottom of the waters, 
would necessarily be accumulated before it, gradually rising 
higher and higher, till, if the momentum was continued, they 
must rise far above the surface, with a gradual declivity to- 
wards the south. Such a cause, operating in this manner to 
a certain distance, would produce a tract of land, whose two 
halves might be expected to present that diversified charac- 
ter both of material and surface, which is presented in the 
northern and southern parts of Long Island.* 

* As an illustration of this conjecture, though it may be no argument in 
its support, the attention of the reader may be directed to a miniature 
operation of this character, of recent occurrence. Of the numerous land, 
elide* which are constantly taking place in our country, the largest and 



14 GEOLOGICAL STRUCTURE, [PART 1, 

The writer acknowledges that all this is mere hypothesis ; 
but where there is nothing but supposition to oppose, one man 
has as good a right to throw out his conjectures as another. 
And it is believed, that the above hypothesis is well calculated 
to account for some of the most remarkable features of Long 
Island, some of which are strikingly illustrated in the occur- 
rence at Herkimer. The discovery, not only of sea-shells, but 
also of the bodies of trees, at a great depth, which has been 
frequently made, in digging wells on the Island, is easily ac- 
counted for on the supposition of such an avalanche as has 
been described. 

It is not the intention of this section to take a detailed view 
of the geological features of the island This would not be 
compatible with the object of the present work ; and those 
who are disposed can avail themselves of the results of the 
late geological survey of the State of New York, which, as far 
as Long Island is concerned, was indefatigably executed by 
William W. Mather, Esq. There are some other topics con- 
nected with this subject, which will receive a brief notice. 

Long Island is remarkably diversified in regard to its sur- 
face, and the character of its soil : and there is a striking con- 
trast, as already suggested, between the northern and south- 
ern parts. A ridge of hills, (not unaptly called " the back- 
bone " of the island,) commencing in the town of New Utrecht, 

most remarkable that the writer ever had an opportunity of examining, 
was that which took place on the north-east side of West Canada Creek, 
near its mouth, in 1816. A tract of several acres, covered with large tim- 
ber, was detached from the adjoining hill, and proceeded directly across 
the Creek ; and with such immense rapidity was the bottom of the Creek 
raised up, before the moving mass, that the little fish were left high and 
dry, on the very gravel, over which, the moment before, they were swim- 
ming in the full enjoyment of their native element. The slide would, in 
all probability, have completely dammed up the Creek, but for the inter- 
vention of an island, lying about its middle, directly in its course. By this 
it was arrested ; and yet the removal, through only a few rods, together 
with its sudden arrest, rent the whole tract, especially its rear part, with im- 
mense fissures or cracks, some of which were ascertained to be *2() feet deep ; 
and how much deeper could not be determined for the want of means. 
The cavity in the hill behind the slide, became a pond, probably of only 
temporary duration ; but which, at the time the writer examined it, only 
a few days after the occurrence, contained a considerable body of water. 
It may be added that this remarkable slide took place in the evening ; and 
notwithstanding the short distance it proceeded, was accompanied with 
so great a noise and jarring of the earth, as to produce general consterna- 
tion in the village of Herkimer, which is about one mile distant ; and was 
supposed to have been occasioned by an earthquake, till the following 
day disclosed the fact 



SECT. 3.] SURFACE, SOIL, FORESTS, ETC. 15 

at the western extremity, passes through, on the north side, 
and occasionally sends offspurs, that extend quite to the mid- 
dle. Hence, the northern half, to the head of Peconick Bay, 
is elevated, uneven, and in some cases, what is called broken 
land. There are, indeed, occasional tracts of several miles in 
extent, that are perfectly smooth and level ; but they are so 
elevated that no water can be reached without digging 100 
feet or even more. On these, you will find numerous habi- 
tations, that have always depended on the clouds of heaven 
for their entire supply of water. 

This ridge of hills occasionally sends up a towering peak, 
whose elevated top furnishes a diversified prospect of land and 
water scenery, that will richly repay the toil of ascending. 
The highest of these, and consequently that which is first dis- 
covered by vessels approaching the coast, is '•'•Harbour Hill" 
situated at the head of Hempstead Harbour, in the town of 
North Hempstead. Its height is stated, in Blunt's Pilot, at 
319 feet above the level of the Sound. Jane's Hill, one of the 
peaks of the West Hills in the town of Huntington, has been 
claimed to be still higher, but there is no evidence that it has 
ever been accurately measured ; while it is confidently asserted 
by mariners, that the former is always discovered first at sea. 

The Dix Hills, another spur in Huntington, after running 
parallel with the West Hills nearly to the middle of the island, 
turns at a right angle, and proceeds easterly ; being frequently 
broken into short ridges, and sometimes detached hills, for the 
space of 20 miles. These are distinguished in succession by 
various names ; as, Comack Hills, Mount Pleasant Bald 
Hills, Ruland's Hill, Coram Hill, and Terry's Hill. Some of 
these are next in elevation, to those previously mentioned. In 
the eastern part of Brookhaven, the ridge is lost in the gene- 
ral elevation of the land. 

The Shinnecock Hills, though entirely disconnected with 
the nothern ridge, are descrying of notice here, as being the 
highest elevations on the southern coast of the island, as well 
as from their singular position and structure. They are 
situated on the isthmus that unites the southern branch or 
peninsula at Canoe Place. Tbey extend about four miles to 
the east, and frequently rise in conical peaks, which overlook 
the adjacent bays, the Sound and the ocean. They are com- 
posed almost entirely of fine sand, which is still drifted hither 
and thither by the winds ; and might be supposed to have been 
formed by this agency, if it were not for an occasional rock, 
jutting out of their sides, even to their top. There must have 



16 GEOLOGICAL STRUCTURE, [PART 1, 

been an amazing depth of water over these isolated hills, if 
floating icebergs contributed this part of their material ! — 
This isthmus, including the Hills, was formerly covered with 
timber ; but it is now perfectly naked, except extensive 
patches of whortle-berry — bay-berry, and other small shrubs, 
not more than two or three feet high ; with here and there 
an aged thorn-bush, which has acquired the form and stature 
of a tree. The road over the hills, is extremely heavy and 
undulating, but it presents one of the most charming views of 
the ocean that can be found on the island. 

While the northern half of Long Island is elevated and 
hilly, and in general presents a stifTer soil ; the southern half 
is remarkably level, and though somewhat diversified, is gene- 
rally, composed of a light sandy soil. At the water's edge, it 
is but little elevated above the level of the sea ; and as you 
proceed northward, it rises so gradually as scarcely to be per- 
ceptible. This is remarkably the case with the great Hemp- 
stead Plain which will be more particularly described. This 
vast tract presents to the eye, from almost every point, the as- 
pect of a horizontal surface ; and yet, if we have the correct 
survey of the Long Island Rail Road, the north east corner of 
that remarkable plain must be nearly one hundred and fifty 
feet above the ocean ; and in passing from Jamaica to Hicks- 
ville, (a distance of only sixteen miles) the assent is one hun- 
dred and two feet. The traveller will find it difficult to per- 
suade himself of the fact, as he passes over the ground. Hicks- 
ville is the summit of the Rail Road. 

The necks on the south side, which are formed by the nu- 
merous bays, and frequently large tracts of the adjacent lands, 
though often mingled with sand, have a strong soil, and abun- 
dantly repay the labour of the husbandman. But there are also 
vast plains of gravel and sand, which are utterly incapable of 
cultivation, and yield no profit but what arises from their 
scanty natural productions. 

Of these, the most remarkable is the great Hempstead Plain, 
which is a vast tract of level land, commencing about 16 miles 
from the west end, and extending 12 miles east, with a breadth 
of 5 or 6 miles. To the eye, this whole tract appears as 
smooth and unbroken as the surface of the sea in a calm ; 
though, as you pass over it, you meet with slight undulations ; 
and the view of the traveller over the whole expanse is unob- 
structed, by tree, or shrub, or any other vegetable production. 
Within the memory of persons still living, there was scarcely 
an enclosure in this whole compass. It was cut up with roads or 



SECT. 3.] SURFACE, SOIL, FORESTS, ETC. 17 

waggon-paths, in almost every direction ; so that the stranger, 
and even the experienced traveller in the night time, or when 
the ground was covered with snow, was constantly liable to 
lose his way. Numerous instances of this, sometimes attended 
with disastrous consequences, occurred in former days. One 
of the principalcountry roads led nearly through the middle 
of the plain, and on it, at intervals of 3 or 4 miles, solitary 
inns were established to accommodate the lonely way-faring 
man. Around these, as a matter of necessity, were small en- 
closures ; some efforts were made to cultivate the land, and a 
few trees planted and nurtured for ornament or use. But the 
occupants were obliged to transport all their fuel, and the 
most of their provisions, from beyond the plain. All the wells 
dug on this extended tract are from 60 to 100 feet, and some- 
times more, in depth. The whole plain was formerly held as 
the common property of the towns in which it lies ; and the 
only use to which it was applied, was the pasturage of sheep 
and cattle during the summer season, on the coarse grass, 
which, from time immemorial, was its only natural produc- 
tion. Numerous ponds, formed either by natural hollows or 
excavated by art, and at length made capable of retaining 
the rain of heaven, offered an abundant supply of water, which 
is rarely exhausted in the driest season. 

Of late years, however, the hand of cultivation, which com- 
menced its operation on the north side of the Plain, has gradu- 
ally extended its labours, till large portions are now success- 
fully subjected to the implements of husbandry. The soil 
of this whole tract is a black, rich, vegetable mould, varying 
in depth from 4 to 12 inches, which needs nothing but warm- 
ing manure to produce an abundant crop. Large fields of 
Indian corn, and also of wheat and rye, are readily raised by 
this mode of treatment. There is no land, in any part of the 
country, that presents a more beautiful or promising appear- 
ance to the eye, than one of these fields when the young blade 
has just sprung up ; and the transient spectator is led to won- 
der why every rod of ground is not converted into a garden. 
The main difficulty lies beneath the soil. The substratum is 
a coarse, smooth, clean gravel, that appears as if it had been 
screened and washed from every particle that was capable of 
retaining moisture, or any other vegetable nourishment, and 
its depth is unfathomable. The necessary consequence is, 
that, except in a few places, where there is a small admixture 
of loam, a coat of manure is leached off in the course of a year 
or two ; and the work must be done over again. Had nature 



18 GEOLOGICAL STRUCTURE, [PART 1, 

here deposited a stratum of clay or loam beneath the present 
soil, it is a question whether this tract would be exceeded on 
this side of the western prairies ; and with the present facili- 
ties for transporting manure, as the L. I. Rail Road runs 
nearly through its middle, this vast tract, now so sterile, might 
be made to furnish sustenance for a population equal in num- 
ber to the present inhabitants of the whole island. But 
whether the invention of man, or the spirit of improvement, 
will ever discover a method by which the expense and labour 
of applying manure and cultivating the soil on this extended 
plain may be adequately repaid, is quite problematical. This 
difficulty once overcome, a few artesian wells would afford a 
supply of water at every man's door. 

There is another peculiarity in the surface of this remark- 
able plain, to which the eye of the traveller may be directed. 
In passing from the east to the west, (on its southern border 
this peculiarity is most clearly discernible,) about once in a 
mile or more frequently as you proceed west, you come to a 
manifest depression in the surface, with a considerably ele- 
vated embankment on the west. These valleys, if they may 
be so called, appear to proceed from near the middle of the 
plain, constantly growing deeper towards the south ; and the 
conviction seems irresistible that they were formed by a tor- 
rent of retiring water. They all run nearly parallel with each 
other, their uniform course being a little to the west of south ; 
and what is not the least remarkable, is, that almost every one 
of these valleys is the source of permanent brooks, some of 
which proceed from a considerable distance up the plain, and 
furnish numerous mill-seats on the south side of the island. 
But these will be more particularly noticed hereafter. 

Adjoining these plains on the east, and south of the hills, 
commences another, on nearly the same level and like the 
other, gradually descending to the South Bay, which has less 
soil, but the same gravelly substratum, though somewhat more 
mingled with loam. This is covered principally with a growth 
of scrub-oak bushes, from 4 to 10 feet high, but never attain- 
ing the form or stature of trees ; they frequently stand so 
close, and interlock their branches, as to defy every attempt 
to pass through them. Hundreds of acres have presented, 
apparently, the same unvaried aspect, from the first settlement 
of the country. The brushy -■plains is as familiar to the ear on 
Long Island, as the great Hempstead Plain ; and the contrast 
is remarkable. 

In some places, these wastes are diversified by a larger, 



SECT. 3.] SURFACE, SOIL, FORESTS, ETC. 19 

though unthrifty growth of oak, or pitch-pine ; but, in many- 
instances, the trees are scattered and completely encompassed 
with the scrub-oak bushes, which seem to claim title as the 
original occupants of the ground. These plains, though occa- 
sionally interrupted, cover large portions of the body of the 
island. The land which they occupy is sometimes cleared, 
and a crop or two of some value raised ; but there is rarely 
sufficient soil to render it worthy of permanent cultivation. 

As we proceed eastward, the sand increases in fineness, 
even in some places, to fluidity ; and about 40 miles from the 
west end, the Great Pine Plains commence, which occupy, 
with little interruption, one half of the island for 50 miles 
eastward. This is, in a great measure, one unbroken forest, 
principally of pitch-pine, occasionally intermingled with oak. 
Ferns and whortle-berry bushes, woodbine and mosses, with 
other shrubs and vines in scattered clumps, help to furnish a 
scanty cover for the sand. The trees, both pine and oak. often 
attain a larger growth than the nature of the ground (for there 
is no soil) would seem to warrant, being from one to two feet 
in diameter. In travelling these forests, you will occasion- 
ally fall upon a small oasis, which cheers the stranger's eye, 
as it well may the heart of the solitary occupant ; but in many 
places, even at the present day, you may pass through 5, 6 
and even 7 miles of unbroken forest, without discerning a hu- 
man habitation, or the least trace of the hand of man, except 
the stumps of felled trees. 

It is a common opinion, of those who have never travelled 
through Long Island, that there is very little wood or timber 
in any part of its lengthened domain. But this is a great 
mistake, especially in relation to that part of it which was de- 
signated as the body of the fish. There you will find a greater 
proportion of the land occupied by woods, than on either side of 
the Hudson, as far up as it is navigable, or on any of the great 
roads in the western part of the state. And why should it not 
be so, since vast portions of the island are of no earthly value, 
but for the wood they produce ? Previously to the introduc- 
tion of anthracite coal into so general use, a large portion of 
the supply of fuel in the city ojf New York — thousands of cords, 
not only of pine from the sandy lands, but of oak and hickory 
of the finest quality from the more elevated parts, were trans- 
ported to that market ; and, singular as the fact may appear, 
in view of the preceding description, there is probably no dis- 
trict of country where a tract of land cut entirely smooth is 
replaced by natural growth with more rapidity, than on the 



20 GEOLOGICAL STRUCTURE, [PART l t 

rough and elevated parts of this island. The same ground 
has often been cut over in 20 or 25 years ; and every suc- 
cessive growth is equally productive. Though the flat, sandy 
lands may require a somewhat longer period, even these are 
replenished with astonishing rapidity. This circumstance 
alone renders those tracts, which are utterly incapable of cul- 
tivation, a source of profit to their owners ; and fully accounts 
for the fact, that so large a portion of the island is still occu- 
pied by wood.* 

lt may be worth while to add, in this connexion, that old, 
worn-out lands, if only defended from the ravages of cattle, 
in process of time, become covered with wood. This result 
has, in a few instances, been greatly hastened by ploughing 
and sowing nuts and acorns. An individual who first tried 
the experiment with chestnuts, lived to cut the trees for fenc- 
ing timber ; some of which were of sufficient size, to use the 
words of his labourer, " to split 8 rails out of the but-log." 

The forests of Long Island, though long since cleared of 
wild-cats, wolves, and the like, with which they once abound- 
ed, are still occupied by vast numbers of deer ; hundreds of 
which have been killed yearly, without destroying the stock. 
But the Long Island Railroad, which now passes through the 
heart of their principal resort, may, by frightening these timid 
animals from their wonted lairs, expose them to the more fre- 
quent shot of the huntsman ; and thus, ere long, the harmless 
race may be extirpated from their native forests, which must 
ever remain undiminished. 

The woods as well as the open fields, abound also with 
quails and partridges ; the swamps with woodcock, and the, 
plains with grouse and plover ; while the surrounding waters, 
especially the extended south bays, are the common resort of 
innumerable multitudes of wild-fowl, from the stately goose 
down to the smallest snipe. Immense numbers of these are 
killed annually by the inhabitants for their own use, or for ; 
market ; and the sport or profit of fishing, hunting and fowl- ! 
ing, probably induces more foreigners to visit the island, ^han , 
all other motives put together : always excepting the abomi- 

* As one, out of many facts in confirmation of this statement, it may 
be remarked that, in the time of the Revolutionary War, Lloyd's Neck, 
which contains less than 31)00 acres, was almost entirely divested of woo . 
by the British. And the growth of wood since the peace of 1783 on this 1 
small tract, of which several hundred acres have been under cultivation, \ 
has been estimated at 1000 cords a year; and more than 50,000 have I 
been actually cut since that time. 



SECT. 3.] SURFACE, SOIL, FORESTS, ETC. 21 

nation of horse-racing, which will receive due attention in a 
proper place. Several kinds of land-birds are protected dur- 
iDg the breeding season, by special statutes ; and the most of 
the sea-fowl protect themselves, during the same period, by 
migration to more unfrequented climes. Upon the return of 
cold weather, these, with the numerous progeny which they 
have reared, return and bespeckle the harbours and bays, 
which constantly resound with their untiring cackle. There 
is reason, however, to believe that some of these species, par- 
ticularly the wild-goose, are greatly diminished in number, 
from what they were formerly. Many persons now living, 
can distinctly recollect the time when, both spring and fall, 
the passage of large flocks of geese over the island, at almost 
any point, was a matter of daily, and sometimes hourly occur- 
rence. But now, it is a sight that is rarely witnessed. The 
same remark is applicable to a smaller species of fowl, though 
larger than the duck, commonly distinguished by the name of 
brant. All the larger kinds of wild fowl are evidently scarcer, 
than they were formerly. The increased population of the 
country, and the improved skill and implements of gunning, 
probably account for the fact. 

It is a remarkable fact in the natural history of this small 
territory, that of all the land-birds belonging to the United 
States, either as resident or migratory, two-thirds of them are 
to be found on Long Island ; of the water-birds, a still larger 
proportion ; and no doubt their number would be increased, if 
it were not for the reckless amusement of shooting small birds 
for the mere sport. 

In this connection, the writer would mention a fact, attest- 
ed by his own observation, that may be as interesting to his 
Traders as it has been to himself. About three years ago, a 
number of English sky-larks made their escape from a cage, 
on board a ship, or just after they were landed in Brooklyn. 
They took up their residence in some beautiful fields, in the 
vicinity of the Wallabout, where, in the two succeeding sum- 
mers, they were considerably multiplied; and, through the 
day, they might be seen and heard, in their lofty gyrations, 
pouring out their delightful song. The fact was no sooner 
known, than these fields became the resort, especially on the 
holy Sabbath, of some of these unprincipled marauders. And 
thus, while the devotions of the Christian were interrupted by 
I ^e frequent reports of their guns, the work of death was car- 
ied on, till these lovely foreigners, which should have met a cor- 
dial welcome to our soil, are heard no more. They are pro- 



22 GEOLOGICAL STRUCTURE, [PABT 1, 

bably extinct. The man that can be guilty of such an act, 
is not worthy to breathe American air, much less to enjoy 
American citizenship. " Procul! procul ! este prof ant T 

The following extracts from the earliest history of Long 
Island ever written, are worthy of a place in this connection. 
They are taken from " A Brief Description of New- York, 
formerly called New Amsterdam ;" by Daniel Denton, of 
Hempstead, published in London, 1670. 

" The greatest part of the Island is very full of timber, as Oaks — white 
and red, Walnut-trees, Chestnut-trees, which yield stores of Mast for 
swine, &c. 

'« For wild beasts, there is Deer, Bear, Wolves, Foxes, Racoons, Otters, 
Musquashes and Skunks. Wild fowl, there is great store of, as Turkeys, 
Heath-hens, Quails, Partridges, Pigeons, Cranes, Geese of several sorts, 
Brants, Widgeons, Teal, and divers others. 

" Upon the south side of Long Island in the winter, lie store of Whales 
and Grampusses, which the inhabitants begin with small boats to make a 
trade, catching to their no small benefit. Also, an innumerable multitude 
of seals, which make an excellent oyle ; they lie all the winter upon some 
broken Marshes and Beaches, or bars of sand before mentioned, and might 
be easily got were there some skilful men would undertake it." 

It is scarcely necessary to say that the taking of a whale, 
on the south side of the island, is now a rare occurrence ; and 
still more rarely, is a wandering seal seen on the shore. 

There have been, and still are, some venomous reptiles on 
the island. Of these the principal are the rattle- snake, and 
the pilot, or copper-headed adder. The former is confined to 
a few localities, while the latter is to be found in almost every 
part. The famous sachem or hoop-snake, of which tradition 
has handed down many hideous accounts, is still in exist- 
ence, though not frequently met with. One has been killed 
the present season, in the forest south of Riverhead, and an- 
other last year, on the line of the railroad, in the town of Is- 
lip. It is said to grow to a large size, (10 or 12 feet in length) 
and is furnished with a shorp horn, on the end of its tail, with 
which it "does battle." Its taking its tail in its mouth and 
rolling like a hoop, upon its adversary, till within striking dis- 
tance, is believed to be fabulous ; though it is, without doubt, 
a dangerous animal to approach. The victor of one of those 
recently killed, tells, of course, a " big story " of the rencoun- 
ter, which it is needless to repeat. Its haunts are confined to 
the most dense forests and swamps. The south beach, par- 
ticularly the eastern part of it, opposite Brookhaven, is the re- 
sort of immense numbers of speckled adders, hundreds of 
which have been killed in a single season. They are, how* 
ever, regarded with little apprehension. 



8ECT. 4.] ITS WATERS, PROMONTORIES, ETC. 23 

SECTION IV. 
Its waters — inland and adjacent ; promontories, <SfC. 

From the situation of Long Island, in the midst of the briny- 
ocean, and the general description of its territory already- 
given, it is seen that large portions of it are elevated far 
above the nether springs ; while other parts consist of vast 
sandy plains, that are incapable of holding water. It might 
hence be supposed, that there must be a remarkable deficiency 
of this important element of animal and vegetable life. But 
this would be a very mistaken conclusion. The island, as a 
whole, is remarkably well-watered ; and there are facts in 
this connection which are worthy of more attentive investi- 
gation by the geologist and the philosopher, than they have 
hitherto received. 

Not only do we find perennial springs, boiling up from the 
sand in almost every part of its shores, both above and below 
high- water mark, and of such a low temperature, as to make 
your teeth ache while you drink ; but its elevated high-lands, 
and even its sandy forests, abound with extensive swamps and 
ponds, which send forth copious streams, clear, cold and 
sparkling, into the adjacent bays. These streams, under the 
names of creeks and brooks, abound particularly on the south 
side, which, it has been seen, is by far the most sandy. In 
travelling on this side of the island, from Gravesend to Canoe 
Place, you necessarily cross one of these streams almost every 
mile, till you have counted some sixty or seventy on your 
journey ; and wherever you may have previously journeyed, 
you cannot fail to acknowledge, that you never beheld such 
clear and sparkling brooks before. 

Similar facts are observable on the north side, though not 
perhaps as numerous. The northern part of the town of Hunt- 
ington is worthy of special notice. In this region, are some 
of the most elevated portions of the island, and the hills ex- 
tend continuously to a greater distance into the interior, than 
any where else. Besides the great back-bone, which here, as 
in other towns, runs east and west, there are within the limits 
of this town, two or three distinct spurs or ribs, running north 
and south more than half way across the island. On this 
whole tract of elevated land, there are numerous springs, 
streams and swamps. Several of these emptying on the north- 



24 ITS WATERS, PROMONTORIES, ETC. [PART 1, 

ern shore, furnish sufficient water for as many mill-seats. At 
Great Cow harbour is an overshot mill, supplied by springs, 
with an aqueduct passing over the public highway, having a 
fall of 30 feet. At the head of Cold Spring Harbour is a 
large mill-pond, supplied by a stream proceeding from springs 
nearly 2 miles through a swamp ; the water of which, after 
supplying a factory, is conveyed by a canal nearly half a 
mile ; where it abundantly supplies an overshot flouring- 
mill with a fall of 20 feet above tide water. This mill is sit- 
uated directly on the shore of the Harbour, accessible by sloops 
at high water, but the fall is so great that its operations are 
not obstructed by the tide. 

Proceeding south from the village of Huntington, you im- 
mediately ascend to an extensive tract of table land, spread 
out between the ridges of hills before mentioned, which is from 
50 to 100 feet above the ocean. On this tract, at the distance 
of 3 miles from the village is a settlement which has long 
borne the name of Long Swamp, from a large tract of springy 
ground in the vicinity. Here are numerous springs of pure 
cold water.* And in this neighbourhood, whoever has not a 
living spring at his own door, needs only to dig a few feet, to 
furnish himself with a good well of water ; while in many 
other places on this same range of table-land, at a few miles 
distance they are obliged to dig 100 feet to obtain water. 

At the West Hills, 2 miles south-west of Long Swamp, 
there are many springs, some of which furnish streams that 
run a considerable distance on the surface, and at length are 
lost in the earth. At Dix Hills, the Half-way-hollow- Hills, 
(just mid-way across the island,) and in various other parts of 
this elevated tract, the same peculiarity in regard to springs 
is found. Can these ridges of hills be the source of such a 
vast supply of water ? 

As we proceed eastward the highlands do not extend so far 
into the interior, if we except a succession of detached hills, 
which run for about 20 miles through the middle of the island ; 
but the streams of water, if not more numerous, are greatly 
increased in size. Some of them are so large as to obtain the 
name of rivers. 

* There is a story, that in replacing a trunk" to one of these springs, 
some years ago, a bottle tightly corked, and bearing the marks of having 
long lain beneath the water, was dug up from the sand, which was sup- 
posed to have been deposited and forgotten by one of a former generation. 
Upon being opened, it was found full of milk, which was perfectly sweet. 
*or the correctness of this story, the writer does not vouch. 



SSCT. 4.] ITS WATERS, PROMONTORIES, ETC. 25 

In the south-east corner of Smithtown, a small stream takes 
its rise, which for some miles, bears the name of the Branch 
Brook. Proceeding westerly, it passes through a swampy re- 
gion, called by the Indians, Hauppairgs, (which it is said 
means sweet waters,) receives large accessions from nume- 
rous springs and rivulets, and afterwards obtains the name 
of Nissequag River. Here, changing its course to the north, 
It empties into Nissequag, or Smithtown Harbour. On this 
stream and its tributaries, four mills have an abundant sup* 
ply of water. 

In the town -of Brookhaven, near Middle Island, a stream 
rises, which is called the Connecticut River. Nor let it be sup- 
posed that this name has been filched from across the Sound, 
to give apparent consequence to a little brook. It is a veri- 
table Indian name, belonging to this locality, which, with a 
slight variation of orthography, is to be found in the most an- 
cient conveyances, on this part of the island. There are two 
streams, to which this name was applied by the aborigines, 
but as they differ considerably in size, the one is called a brook 
and the other a river. The former is in Islip. The latter is 
the stream in question. Its general course is southerly, and 
intersecting the railroad at Miiiville, empties into the Fire 
Place Bay ; which is the eastern part of the Great South Bay* 
This also furnishes abundant water for several mill-seats, and 
has long been famous for its excellent trout ; which, however, 
<s not a peculiarity of this stream, as almost every brook on 
the island yields more or less of this kind of fish. 

The village of Patchogue is probably one of the most fa- 
voured places on Long Island, in regard to water power, hav- 
ing within the distance of a mile and a half, 3 very consider- 
able streams. The first, just at the western part of the vil- 
lage, formerly called " Little Patchogue," has a fail of S feet? 
supplies a factory, driving 500 spindles, and other machinery 
connected therewith. Near the centre of the village is the 
*' Great Patchogue," which takes its rise about 6 miles to the 
north. Nearly 4 miles from its source a dam is erected where 
a saw-mill and fulling mill are abundantly supplied. At the 
village, is another dam, with a fall of 10 feet, which is capa- 
ble of driving a paper-mill, a cotton factory of 5 or 600 spin- 
dles, a small woollen mill, and a grist mill of four run of stones. 
One mile east of this, is " Swan Creek," which gives a head 
of water of 10 feet fall, and drives a Hour mill, with 4 run of 
stones, a saw-mill, a thrashing machine, a clover-seed mill, 
and a cotton factory of 500 spindles. The owners add, that 

2 



26 ITS WATERS, PROMONTORIES, ETC. [PART I, 

•' there is extra power enough to drive 1000 additional spin- 
dles." It is also stated, in relation to all these streams, that 
" they seldom fail of affording, the year round, about the same 
quantity of water— the gentle inclination and flatness of the 
country preserves them from being subject to be swelled by 
great freshets on the one hand ; or very materially affected 
by severe droughts on the other." 

But the largest and longest stream on the island is the Pe- 
conick River. It rises in the eastern part of Brookhaven, 
not far from the centre of the island ; and after running 12 
or 15 miles in an easterly direction, receiving numerous tri- 
butary streams from swamps and ponds, it falls into the head 
of Peconick Bay, at Riverhead. It furnishes more numerous 
mill seats than any other single stream ; and these are scat- 
tered along for the distance of 4 or 5 miles, with an aggregate 
fall of between 20 and 30 feet. 

The Wading River, at the north east corner of Brookhav- 
en, forming a boundary between it and Riverhead, though 
still bearing its ancient name, is now nothing more than a 
small brook, extending scarcely a quarter of a mile above the 
tide water, though it is said to have proceeded formerly, from 
a considerable distance up the adjacent valley, which has been 
gradually filled up with sand. This stream is fed with co- 
pious springs, and affords an unfailing supply of water to a 
mill pond, with a fall of 9 feet. Below the dam the stream 
meanders more than a mile through an extended meadow, 
which is sometimes overflowed with the tide, and thus dischar- 
ges into the Sound. 

There are a great many other brooks on the island, which, 
although not called rivers, furnish abundant water for mills, 
factories and other hydraulic machinery. And what is still 
more remarkable, streams of this description are found on 
both of the eastern branches, after they are divided into nar- 
row strands by the Peconick Bay. On the northern branch 
there are two such brooks within 3 miles of Riverhead, which 
supply saw-mills. And on the southern branch, in proceed- 
ing from Riverhead to Canoe Place, the distance of only 9 
miles, you cross 5 brooks ; two of them especially clear, ra- 
pid and unfailing. Crossing the isthmus, which has been al- 
ready described, and after entering upon the south-eastern pen- 
insula, there are unfailing brooks on both shores, though they 
are not numerous, supplied by swamps or natural ponds. 
Three of these have been occupied as mill seats — one of them 
for the space of 200 years. 



SECT. 4.] ITS WATERS, PROMONTORIES, ETC. 27 

The aggregate water power of the Island may be inferred 
from the fact that there are, in Suffolk County alone, between 
60 and 70 grist-mills, saw-mills, factories and fulling mills, 
exclusive of those which are supplied by tide water. 

But Long Island is not more remarkable for its streams of 
running water, than for its natural ponds or lakes. Let not 
the reader be startled, by the assumption of another name of 
such dignified import. The facts will be found to justify the 
appellation. And what renders these ponds a still more in- 
teresting object of examination, is their location ; some of 
them being situated on the most elevated and extended high- 
grounds, where it is difficult to conjecture the sources of their 
never failing supply ; while others, but little elevated above 
the ocean, extend to an amazing depth, in the bosom of the 
earth. To give a description of all these, that are really 
worthy of notice, would fill a small volume. We shall there- 
fore confine our attention to a few of the most remarkable. 

Among these, Success Pond deserves a primary place. 
The name is supposed to be a corruption of the Indian word 
Sacut, which was its aboriginal appellation. It is situated 
about 2 miles south of Manhassett, at the head of Cow Bay, 
in the town of North Hempstead, near the north-east corner 
of Flushing, which is about 6 miles east of Flushing Village. 
It lies in a basin, on the ridge of hills, previously described, 
which attains its greatest height, a few miles east of this spot. 
The highest peak in the immediate vicinity of the pond is on 
the south side, which is probably 200 feet above the level of 
the sea. By ascending to its top, (which is of easy access,) 
you behold one of the most extended and diversified pros- 
pects, that can be found on our coast. On the north, the 
mountains of Connecticut are seen towering in the distance : 
at the north and west, the pallisades on the Hudson, and the 
highlands of New-Jersey extending to the west and south, as 
far as the eye can reach. Turning to the south, you behold 
the entire Hempstead Plain, with the whole southern part.of 
Queen's and King's county, spread out at your feet. The 
villages of Hempstead and Jamaica, each distant about 6 
miles, are in open view, while the Queen's County Court 
House, at the distance of 3 miles, in a southeasterly direc- 
tion, is far beneath you. And then casting your eye beyond 
the shore, you behold the waters of the broad Atlantic, spark- 
ling in the sun-beams, from Sandy Hook to the eastern boun- 
dary of Queen's County. 

When satisfied, if the eye can ever be satisfied with view- 



28 ITS WATERS, PROMONTORIES, ETC. [PART 1, 

ing such an extensive and variegated scene, turning to the 
little lake behind, you behold an object much more limit- 
ed but not less interesting to the inquisitive mind. And it is 
equally a matter of surprise and regret, that this great natural 
curiosity, lying within 20 miles of the great emporium, with 
its seats of science, furnished with every facility for scienti- 
fic investigation, and in the immediate vicinage of gentle- 
men of fortune and the patrons of science, should never have 
excited sufficient attention to ascertain the elements of its 
topography and dimensions. After the most careful investi- 
gation and inquiry, the writer has been unable to learn, that 
any exact admeasurement of the situation and extent of this 
wonderful body of water has ever been made. Even in its 
immediate vicinity, you will receive as many different state- 
ments, in regard to its extent of surface and depth, as you 
may find persons to inquire of, and no man there pretends to 
know its elevation above the sea. The whole, therefore, seems 
to be a matter of conjecture. In the absence of all certain 
knowledge, the following may be taken, as an approximation 
to the truth. 

This pond is about half a mile in length with an average 
breadth of 60 rods, (the north-eastern part being double of the 
southwestern,) with a superficies of 50 acres. While one 
man on the ground asserted, that it had been tried with a line 
of 70 fathoms, without finding bottom ; another stated, that 
its greatest depth had been ascertained to be 80 feet. The 
surface of the water is probably from 100 to 150 feet, perhaps 
more, above the level of the sea. Surrounded on all sides by 
sloping banks, which are covered with verdure to the water's 
edge, and undulate with the adjacent country; it had formerly 
a natural outlet to the northwest, through which its surplus 
water was discharged. It now rarely overflows. 

Some 40 or 50 years ago, an artificial opening was made 
on the south side, with the expectation of subserving some 
hydraulic purpose; but the supply of water was found in- 
sufficient, and the canal is now filled up. By this operation, 
the surface of the pond was reduced several feet, and it was a 
number of years before it attained its former level. If the 
springs that supply this pond were sufficiently active, it would 
be easy to convey a stream of water to any part of Hemp- 
stead Plain.* r 

* Since the above was written, the city of Brooklyn have taken mea- 
ZrJZ aSCC ? . the P r f actlCabi ! St y of obtaining a supply of water for their 
increasing population, from this source. But it is understood, that the 



SECT. 4.] ITS WATERS, PROMONTORIES, ETC. 29 

The water of this pond is pure and clear, evidently supplied 
by living springs, whose source is wholly unknown, and of 
which it is difficult to form a conjecture. All the land en- 
compassing the pond, excepting a small space at the south- 
west end is entirely clear of wood, while several neat farm- 
houses are delightfully situated near the banks. 

A house has been erected here for the entertainment of 
visiters ; but it is very much out of repair, and not well kept. 
As the pond abounds with perch, the stock of which was 
transported from Ronkonkama Pond, by Dr. Mitchell and his 
uncle in 1790, if good accommodations were provided, there 
could not be found within 20 miles of the great city, a more 
delightful retreat in the summer season ; especially in the 
season of berries and cherries, with which the neighbourhood 
abounds. 

Ronkonka3Ia Pond, or White Sand Po?id, as its name im- 
ports, is the next most remarkable sheet of water ; and much 
larger in extent. It is situated about ten miles west of the 
centre of the island, just midway from the north and south 
shore. The western line of the town of Brookhaven passes 
directly through the pond, which is intersected near the mid- 
dle by the dividing line between Islip and Smithtown. It is 
situated on the gravelly and sandy plain, which extends from 
the south side towards the highlands on the north. The sur- 
face of the pond is sunk some 20 or 30 feet beneath the sur- 
rounding country. The banks, except on the north, are pre- 
cipitous ; and the shores are composed of nearly as pure, white 
sand as the margin of the ocean. There is not the same dif- 
ficulty, as in the former case, in ascertaining the elevation of 
this pond above tide-water. A probable conjecture may be 
formed from the fact, that the L. I. rail-road, which runs three- 
fourths of a mile south, is at that point, between 80 and 90 
feet above the sea. This pond is nearly circular, and about 
3 miles in circumference. Its depth is said to be unfathomed, 
and has neither inlet nor outlet. Its water is perfectly pure, 
and abounds with fish of several kinds. There is a tradition 
that its waters are subject to a periodical flood and ebb, once 

above facts, which they have found to be correct, have satisfied them that 
an adequate supply cannot be obtained. It has been stated in the papers 
that the Brooklyn Committee found the greatest depth of the pond to be 
short of 60 feet. The writer's information was derived from an intelli- 
gent gentleman in that vicinity, who stated that it was 75 or 80 feet in the 
deepest place. 



30 ITS WATERS, PROMONTORIES, ETC [PART 1, 

in 7 vears; but there is no satisfactory evidence of its truth; 
while the simple fact, that it has never been ascertained to a 
certainty, by those who have spent their lives on its banks, is 
conclusive evidence to the contrary. No doubt its waters are 
higher at some times than at others ; and the appearance of 
the land on the north side seems to indicate, that the pond 
once extended to a considerable distance in that direction. 
But there is no evidence that its extent was ever materially 
greater than at the present time. It is, on the whole, a re- 
markable reservoir of water, and is well worthy of the name 
of a lake ; though it is to be hoped that the insatiable rage for 
new names may never succeed in robbing this beautiful sheet 
of water of its aboriginal appellation. How tame is " Forest 
Lake," or any other English term, compared with the sonorous 
word, Ronkonkama ! Esto perpetua. 

Coram Pond is a small collection of water, 8 miles east of 
Ronkonkama ; remarkable only for its situation, in a deep 
basin, with banks composed, like the surrounding country for 
several miles, of the finest sand, which appears almost as fluid 
as water. And it seems to be a matter of wonder, that this 
cavity has not long since been filled up with a more ponder- 
ous material than the rain of heaven. 

Passing by several others, there is a remarkable succession 
of ponds in the eastern part of Brookhaven, near the line of 
Riverhead. These are situated on very elevated ground. 
They are 5 in number, lying in a direct line, and extending 
from the middle of the island to within 2 miles of the Wading 
river. There is no visible connexion between them except 
when filled to overflowing. The most northerly one, which 
is probably the largest, being 110 rods in length, is called 
Long Pond. 

A short distance to the east of Long Pond, and just within 
the bounds of Riverhead, is another smaller collection of wa- 
ter, bearing the name of Deep Pond. It is nearly circular, 
about 75 rods in diameter, and 54 feet in depth. The terri- 
tory on which this and the other ponds last mentioned are situ- 
ated, is a part of an extended tract of table-land occupying a 
large portion of the northern side of the island, which is so 
elevated, that there are few wells throughout its whole extent. 
For several miles, on the north road in the town of River- 
head, the wells that are found, are from 95 to 118 feet 
deep. And there is one at Fresh Pond, about three miles 
north-east of Deep Pond, which is 129 feet in depth. These 



SECT* 4.] ITS WATERS, PROMONTORIES, ETC. 31 

facts will afford a correct idea of the elevated situation of these 
ponds. 

" There is," says a correspondent, " a pond of water in the 
north-east corner of this town, {Riverhead,) owned by the 
Hallocks, which covers about 5 acres of land, 60 feet above 
the level of the sound, and 72 feet deep. It never freezes 
over unless the weather becomes suddenly very cold, and even 
then, some part of it thaws and is open in a day or two." 

Connected with the Peconick river, and principally within 
the town of Southampton, only two miles from the village of 
Riverhead, is a very remarkable pond, which is not unaptly 
called Great Pond. It is a mile and a half in length, and 
from a quarter to a half-a-mile broad. A canal and basin 
have been formed by which the waters of this pond are con- 
veyed to the lower dam, on the south side of the Peconick 
river, and an additional mill erected, which, with a head of 8 
feet, discharges its water into the lower pond. If the dis- 
charge were made below the dam, the entire fall would be 
doubled, From these facts, it is manifest, that the surface of 
this pond is at least 18 feet above the level of the head of Pe- 
conick Bay, from which it is distant only 2 miles, with nothing 
intervening but a sandy pine plain. In fact, this whole re- 
gion, as singular as it may appear, abounds with extensive 
swamps and numerous ponds, which are evidently supplied by 
unfailing springs of the purest water. 

It might naturally be supposed, that from the head of Pe- 
conick Bay, by which the island is divided into two narrow 
strands, extending more than 30 miles into the sea, this pecu- 
liar feature would disappear. But this is not the fact. The 
same phenomena are to be traced to within a few rods of the 
most easterly points. 

On the north branch, Mattituck Pond is the most remark- 
able. Situated in a basin, some 20 or 30 feet below the gene- 
ral surface of the land, its waters are but little above the Pe- 
conick Bay, from which it is distant about a quarter of a mile. 
Like several others which have been noticed, it is nearly cir- 
cular, and has no outlet. Including a tract of swampy land, 
which appears to have been formed on the north side, it is pro- 
bably about half a mile in diameter. 

(A still larger pond, or rather an arm of the sea, on the 
north side of Mattituck, is connected with the Sound, by a 
creek, and is the seat of a tide-mill.) 

Proceeding eastward, the same peculiarity meets the eye. 
Every few miles you discover tracts of low swamp, and occa- 



32 ITS WATERS, PROMONTORIES, ETC. [PART % 

sional ponds of fresh water. After crossing the isthmus and 
entering on the peninsula of Oysterponds, even there, simi- 
lar swamps and small ponds are found, not only within sight 
of the briny waters, but with nothing but a narrow beach be- 
tween. Seme of these are several feet above tide- water. 
But there is no pond here of sufficient consequence to have 
given name to the place ; nor is it known that it was ever re- 
markable for the production of oysters. 

The same peculiarity is equally striking on the southern 
branch of the island ; which, from the general view previously 
taken, it will be recollected, consists principally of two penin- 
sulas, the larger formed by the narrow isthmus at Canoe 
Place, and the smaller formed by Ncapeague beach, which is 
5 miles long. Indeed, in regard to the number and extent 
both of swamps and ponds, there is a greater proportion here 
than in almost any other part of the island, To say nothing 
of those large reservoirs, which lie just within the beach, and 
are occasionally connected with the ocean, there is a large 
number of fresh water ponds, considerably elevated, and en- 
tirely surrounded by land. 

A pond about three miles east of the village of Southamp- 
ton, forming a mill-seat, has been occupied as such 200 years. 
In this immediate vicinity are several others, which are called 
in (he aggregate the Seven Ponds. 

About 2 miles east of this, and within the parish of Bridge- 
hampton is another remarkable land-locked pond, called Kil- 
lis Pond, from an Indian of that name. It is about a mile 
from Mecock's Bay, elevated a few feet above it, and having 
the depth of 40 het. It is more than half a mile in circuit, 
and without any outlet, A little north of this, is another 
pond, similarly situated,, but smaller in its dimensions. 

A Uttle to the eastward, directly between Bridgehampton 
and Sag-Harbour, is a continuous line of ponds, extending, 
with short intervals between them, entirely across the island* 
from Sagg Pond on the south, which is separated from the 
ocean by the sand beach, to the Olfer Pond on the north, which 
is connected with the Peconick Bay In their vicinity are 
extended swamps, some of which are found on the most ele- 
vated land between these two points, which is probably 50 or 
61) feet above the sea. 

The Otter Pond is a circular expanse of water 40 or 50 
rods in diameter and about 13 feet deep, lying in the south 
part of the village of Sag Harbour, and is separated from the 
Bay by a low marsh of about 10 rods in extent. The surface 



SECT. 4.] ITS WATERS, PROMONTORIES, ETC 33 

of the water is about 15 or 20 feet below the surrounding 
land, which is composed entirely of sand. This pond was 
formerly occupiea as a mill seat : and more than 40 years ago, 
the proprietor, with the hope of increasing the quantity of 
water, connected two of the adjacent ponds, by a canal of 
nearly a mile in extent. The success of the project induced 
the owner of the mill on the south side, to make a similar ex- 
periment ; which being extended to the central and most ele- 
vated pond, completely cut off the flow of water to the north. 
The mill being removed from the mouth of the Otter Pond, 
and a canal of 8 or 10 feet in breadth being cut to the tide- 
water, in the course of a few years, the deep waters of this 
pond became the favourite winter quarters of immense quan- 
tities of streaked bass. The produce of this pond in a single 
winter has amounted to more than $1500. Of late years, 
however, this fishery has entirely failed ; though the pond 
still furnishes large quantities of eels, of the finest quality. 

It is proper to add, that the waters of this whole line of 
ponds appear to be gradually diminishing ; and as the clearing 
of the land advances they may ultimately fail. From the 
largest of these ponds, there is a natural outlet, forming the 
Leganee Brook, which is the south-western boundary of the vil- 
lage of Sag Harbour, and discharges into the Bay a little 
above that place. In former days, this stream was frequented 
by large quantities of alewives or herring, which in the open- 
ing of spring, ascended for the purpose of spawning. 

Passing over a number of extensive swamps and ponds in 
the town of Easthampton, we come to that most remarkable 
part of its territory, — the peninsula of Montauk. And here 
we shall find some of the most notable facts in relation to this 
topic. 

The reader will recollect, that this entire tract is a promon- 
tory, 9 miles long and from 1 to 3 miles wide, jutting out 
into the midst of the Atlantic, with which it is surrounded on 
all sides, with the bare exception of a low sand beach of 5 
miles in length, by which it is connected with the rest of the 
island. The greater part of this tract is, from 50 to 100 feet 
above the surrounding ocean. With these facts in view, 
Montauk would seem to be one of the last spots on the earth, 
where we should look for extensive swamps, copious springs, 
and large ponds of fresh water. And yet here we find them 
in the greatest profusion. 

The first collection of fresh water occurs in the northwest 
corner of the peninsula, immediately after crossing Neapeague 

2* 



34 ITS WATERS, PROMONTORIES, ETC [PART 1, 

Beach. It was called by the natives, QuannontowunJc, but by 
the whites, Fresh Pond. Though situated near the north 
shore, and its surface elevated somewhat above the level of the 
sea, it has no outlet. 

Proceeding about 2 miles east, we come to Fort Pond, 
called by the Indians Konkhonganoch This extends nearly 
across the peninsula, being separated from the water on 
both sides, by sandy beaches. The pond itself is about 
one mile and a half in length, and a quarter of a mile in 
breadth. 

A mile and a half east of this, where the peninsula attains 
its greatest breadth, lies what is emphatically called Great 
Pond. The Indian name is unknown. This is the largest 
collection of fresh water on Long Island, being 2 miles in 
length, and covering an area of more than 600 acres. Its 
depth is generally 18 or "20 feet, and there are 2 small islands 
embraced within its waters. 

A little to the eastward and near the north shore, occur in 
succession the Little Reed and the Great Reed Pond, which 
are considerable bodies of water. And still further east, within 
a mile and a half of the extreme point is Oyster Pond, which 
abounds with several kinds of fish, particularly the yellow 
perch, and in times past, has produced oysters of a fine flavour, 
and in great abundance. A little north of the light-house are 
two or three smaller ponds, the largest of which is called 
Money Pond, but they are of little account. 

" Great Pond, Fort Pond, and Oyster Pond occasionally fill to over- 
flowing-, and break out into the Sound ; but they are generally let out, by 
trenches dug with that view, for the purpose of draining the "surrounding 
meadows, or improving the fishery. The rush of water cuts a channel of 
considerable size and depth; and then, the tide sometimes ebbs and flows 
in them for months together. It is now, however, some years since Great 
Pond has had any connexion with the sea : and its water has become so 
fresh that it is freely drunk by cattle." 

Besides these vast reservoirs of fresh water on Montauk, 
there were formerly extensive swamps, which, however, have 
been greatly diminished, by the destruction of the timber, with 
which they were formerly "covered. There are also numerous 
springs, which burst out from the hills a little above tide water. 
They are not generally very active. "There is one on the 
north shore near the Oyster Pond, of delicious water, slightly 
tinctured with iron. It boils up through the sand a little above 
high water mark." These, together with the rain of heaven, 
and filtration from the surrounding ocean, form the only visi- 



SECT. 4.] ITS WATERS, PROMONTORIES, ETC. 35 

b\e means of supply to these vast reservoirs of fresh water on 
this most singularly situated peninsula.* 

And though last, not the least remarkable is a large fresh 
pond on Shelter Island. The form, situation and extent of 
this island have been previously noticed. And yet on this 
small tract of land, surrounded on every side, and in several 
places, deeply indented by the salt water, constantly ebbing 
or flowing to and from the ocean, there is a fresh pond, some 
distance from the shore, elevated a few feet above tide water, 
occupying an area of 30 acres, and extending to the depth of 
60 feet 

Besides the general reference that has been made to the 
springs of Long Island, it would be interesting, if time per- 
mitted to give them a more particular notice. But, it must 
suffice to say, that they are very numerous, up on the shores, 
bursting out from the banks, some of them at a considerable 
elevation, and others proceeding quite from the interior of the 
island. In general their temperature is low, but remarkably 
uniform through the different seasons of the year ; so that 
they are seldom affected by frost, while the adjacent waters 
are deeply congealed. Of this, the following fact, mentioned 
by a respected correspondent, presents a striking illustration. 

"There are three springs on the farm of my brother-in-law, on the 
north side of this town, (Riverhead,) situated about thirty or forty rods 
from the cliff, which were never known to fail or freeze. H. visited 
them one winter, when the Sound was frozen, as far as he could see ; and 
the springs were open, and a frog was swimming about in one of them 
The cliff adjoining is about as high as the general face of that region. A 
little to the east is another spring issuing from the cliff, about half or two- 
thirds of the distance from its bottom; discharging its waters perfectly 
clear, and in large quantities." 

This is the tract of table-land previously described, on 
which there are few wells, and those that have been dug, are 
from sixty to more than one hundred feet in depth. And yet 
it is added : — 

" There are several wells here, perhaps thirty or forty rods from tho 
cliff, which are not more than ten or twelve feet deep." 

* It might have been mentioned before, that, about a mile and a half 
southwest of Sag Harbour, on the ridgje of land between that village and 
the western part of Bridgehampton, which there attains the height of 100 
feet or more, is a spring strongly impregnated with sulphur. About 3 
miles west of this, near the shore of the Peconick Bay, is a mill, supplied 
by a copious spring, with a fall of something like 20 feet. This is near 
the residence of John Osborn, Esq., late Collector of the port of Sag-Har- 
bour. This locality bears the name of Noyack, or Noeg. It is a pure ab- 
original name, and tho former is supposed to be the true orthography. 



30 ITS WATERS, PROMONTORIES, ETC [PART % 

A similar fact is noticeable in the village of Miller's Place, 
situated on the same elevation of land, 15 miles to the west, 
and about a mile from the Sound. A little south, there is a 
large tract of swampy land, and near the centre of the village, 
a pond that is supplied by springs, and is seldom affected by 
drought. On the main street, running east and west for 
nearly a mile, every house has a fine well, varying from eight 
to twenty feet deep. And yet, to the east or west of this little 
settlement, no water can be reached but by digging to a vast 
depth. Though the site of this village is perfectly flat, and 
on the same level with the adjacent country, it is supposed, 
though sufficient excavations have not been made to test the 
fact, that beneath the surface a natural basin has been formed, 
of materials that prevent the water from descending to the 
nether springs. 

Several other similar facts might be adduced, from differ- 
ent parts of the island ; but this must suffice. 

The elevated character of the northern parts of the island, 
extends even to the shores, which, in many places, present a 
bold, precipitous front. About 4 miles of the western coast 
you find cut up by the deep indentation of the bays and har- 
bours previously mentioned, into as many distinct promonto- 
ries, from three to six miles in length, and which, at their ex- 
tremities, are separated from each other, some by several 
miles, and others by only a few rods of water. The northern 
parts of Newtown, Flushing, North Hempstead, Oyster Bay 
and Huntington, are thus strikingly characterized ; while 
Lloyd's Neck and Eaton's Neck are complete peninsulas, en- 
tirely surrounded by water, except a narrow sand beach, with 
which each is connected with the last-mentioned township. 
Eaton's Neck Beach is three miles in length, and from ten to 
thirty rods wide, bearing nothing but a few cedar and beach 
plum-trees, which are the common produce of the Long Island 
shores. If, therefore, a traveller, in proceeding from Brook- 
lyn to Smithtown, which are only 45 miles apart, should pur- 
sue his journey on the northern shore, tracing all its sinuosi- 
ties, he would travel not less than 150 miles. 

Crane Neck is a large promontory in Brookhaven, formed 
by a sudden projection of the land, in a straight line nearly 
north and south, from the mouth of Stony Brook harbour. It 
extends farther into the Sound than Eaton's neck, from which 
it is distant 12 miles. The most northerly part of Crane 
Neck is called Old Field Point, on which a Light-house was 
erected in 1823. It was here that one of the hapless surviv- 



SECT. 4.] ITS WATERS, PROMONTORIES, ETC. 37 

ors of the Lexington was drifted to the land, after floating on 
a bale of cotton during two days and nights. " His fingers 
and feet were frozen as stiff as marble, and he was without 
coat or hat." Several bodies, and numerous trunks and other 
property, drifted on shore in this vicinity. 

From Crane Neck nearly to the east end, the shore is ele- 
vated and precipitous, slightly curved, but with scarcely a 
perceptible projection, and, as previously noticed, without a 
harbour. The most notable peninsulas of the two eastern 
branches have been sufficiently described, excepting those on 
the mediterranean bay, which are too numerous to receive dis- 
tinct notice, and may be sufficiently understood by inspecting 
the map. 

The following extract from Denton's " Brief Description, 
&c," already referred to, and which has fallen into the writ- 
er's hand since the preceding sections were written, remark- 
ably coincides in many of its statements with the description 
which has been given. It is also worthy of notice as a cu- 
riosity : — 

" There are several Navigable Rivers* and Bays, which put mto the 
North side of Long Island ; but upon the South side, which joins to the sea, 
it is so fortified with sands and shoals, that it is a sufficient defence against 
any enemy ; yet the South side is not without Brooks and Riverets, which 
empty themselves into the sea : yea, you shall scarce travel a mile but 
you shall meet with one of them, whose Crystal streams run so swift, that 
they purge themselves of such stinking mud and filth, which the standing 
or (s)low paced streams of most brooks and rivers westward of this colony 
leave lying, and arc, by the Sun's exhalation, dissipated, the air corrupted, 
and many Fevers and other Distempers occasioned, not incident to this 
colony. Neither do the Brooks and Riverets premised give way to the Frost 
in Winter, or drought in Summer, but keep their course throughout the 
year." 

Some parts of the northern coast of Long Island furnish 
numerous and commodious harbours, for the protection of 
shipping of any class that navigate the Sound. This is re- 
markably the case, from New- York as far east as Eaton's 
Neck, opposite Nor walk, Conn. The Narrows, through their 
whole extent from the city to Sand's Point, a distance of 20 
miles, is little else than one continued harbour. Then, after 
opening the Sound, Hempstead Harbour, Oyster Bay, and 

* By " navigable rivers," the author undoubtedly means those narrow 
heads of the bays or harbours, now generally called creeks, which in seve- 
ral instances put up some distance into the land, receiving the waters of 
large streams. Upon the rise of the tide, these creeks are navigable for 
sloops of considerable burden. 



38 ITS WATERS, PROMONTORIES, ETC. [PART 1, 

Huntington Bay, with their broad mouths and deep waters, 
afford a safe defence for large shipping, from almost any 
wind ; while the numerous small harbours with which they 
are connected, (and the last-mentioned bay has no less than 
four,) furnish complete protection to smaller craft. 

Smithtown Bay, which lies between Eaton's Neck and 
Crane Neck, near which the unfortunate Lexington met her 
fate, is little else than an expanse of the Sound, with no pro- 
tection on the north, for the distance of 12 miles ; and its 
harbours are too small and difficult of access, except for 
small vessels under experienced direction. From Setauket 
Harbour, near Old Field Point, to Oysterpond Point, a dis- 
tance of nearly 50 miles, there is scarcely an opening in the 
land, where even a small vessel can make a harbour in a time 
of the greatest necessity. 

The Great Bay, by which the eastern part of the island 
is divided into two branches, of course furnishes numerous 
harbours, some of which are available for ships of the first 
class. Gardiner's Bay was a favourite resort for the British 
fleet, not onlv at the time of the Revolution, but during the 
war of 1S12-15. 

Sag Harbour with its sixty whaling ships, besides coasting 
vessels, and Greenport, with its twelve, more or less, and 
the steamboats connecting with the Long Island Railroad, 
are always accessible, when the ice does not close up the 
gate. 

Although the Bays on the south side of the island are nu- 
merous and large, and completely defended from the rage of 
the ocean, by the great barrier of sand, more durable than 
stone ; yet the inlets are so few and difficult of access, even 
for small craft, that it is impracticable to enter them, when 
the refuge is most desirable. In the whole length of the 
island, there are but 10 openings in the Great Beach ; and 
these are constantly varying, by the violence of the waves, 
so that after a single storm, the channel, which is never deep, 
may be materially obstructed or changed. This necessarily 
renders the coasting business, on the whole south side, ex 
ceedingly uncertain and precarious ; and at the same time, 
accounts for those awful disasters which have so often beer 
attended with the most appalling consequences on this ill-fate< 
shore. From Coney Island to Montauk Point, there is not 
the vestige of a harbour, that can be entered by a sea-vessel. 
If, therefore, by a mistake of reckoning, or other cause, a ship 
is brought near the coast, with a strong wind bearing ou 



SECT. 4.] ITS WATERS, PROMONTORIES, ETC. 39 

shore, or a breeze too light to beat off, her doom is usually 
sealed. 

A fact, worthy of special notice, as greatly increasing the 
hazard of life, is, that a sand-bar, or flat, from a quarter to 
half a mile distant, runs parallel with the beach nearly its en- 
tire length. On this, vessels frequently ground ; and being 
alternately lifted up and thrust down, by every successive 
wave, they are soon dashed in pieces ; or, becoming fixed on 
the bottom, are immediately surrounded by an embankment 
of sand, so that they are completely engulfed by the ocean 
waves. 

These various circumstances, taken in connection with the 
vast extent of coast, arising from the great length and ex- 
treme narrowness of the island, which, following the sinuosities 
of the numerous navigable bays, presents a line of not less 
than 400 miles, must necessarily render this the scene of nu- 
merous shipwrecks, attended with a vast loss of property, and 
a lamentable destruction of human life. Some of these will 
be noticed hereafter in connexion with the localities with 
which they are particularly identified. A few cases, however, 
may be mentioned here. 

Between Christmas, 1790, and the New Year following, the 
Brig Sally of Stamford, Conn., Capt. Benjamin Keeler, on a 
return voyage from the West Indies, with a cargo of molasses, 
was cast away on Eaton's Neck Reef, in a terrible snow- 
storm, and every person on board perished. This was before 
the Light House on that point was erected, and no dwelling 
being in sight, the sad event was not known, till some of the 
cargo floated across to Lloyd's Neck, and awakened inquiry. 
The crew was supposed to consist of 10 persons, but only 6 
bodies were found attached to the rigging or on the shore. 
The vessel and cargo were an entire loss. 

This point has always been one of the most dangerous in 
the Sound, and was peculiarly so, till the erection of the Light 
House in 179S, which is one of the most important beacons 
in the Sound. 

The remarkable snow-storm of Dec. 23rd, 1811, was the 
most destructive of both life and property of any that is 
known to have occurred on the northern shore. The preced- 
ing day was remarkably warm and fair. The change took 
place suddenly in the night, the mercury falling almost to zero. 
A snow-storm commenced, accompanied with a tremendous 
wind, which lasted without intermission for 24 hours. Be- 
tween 50 and 60 vessels foundered in the Sound, or were 



40 ITS WATERS, PROMONTORIES, ETC. [PART 1, 

driven on the northern shore of the island in that terrible 
night. In some cases, the entire crews perished, while in 
others, those who survived, were objects of greater commisera- 
tion than the dead, being horribly frozen. The writer can 
speak with entire confidence on this subject, as he was an eye- 
witness to some of the ravages of that awful tempest. About 
20 perished within 10 miles of his residence, 4 of whom, from 
one vessel, he assisted in burying, on Christmas day ; and in 
administering to the necessities of tt wretched survivors of the 
same crew. The bodies taken up from the shore were com- 
pletely covered with ice of an inch in thickness, through which 
the features of the face appeared in all the ghastliness of death. 
That storm will never be forgotten by the last surviver of that 
generation. And no man that spent that day as the writer 
spent it, will ever hear that always unappropriate compliment, 
" a merry Christmas" without conscious pain. 

The burning of the steamboat Lexington, Jan. 13th, 1840, 
in the Sound, near the Long Island shore, is worthy of record 
in this connexion. She took fire about 7 o'clock in the even- 
ing off Eaton's Neck, and in a few moments was enveloped in 
flames, by which the wretched sufferers were consumed, or 
forced to precipitate themselves into the water. The night 
was extremely cold and dark ; and the burning mass rendered 
the scene indescribably terrific, even on the distant shores ; 
from which no aid could come, till the lurid flames were 
quenched in the sea. The number of passengers has, of 
course, never been exactly ascertained. It is known that 77 
passengers actually perished, and 4 1 of the boat's crew. Total 
1 1 8. Only 4 were saved ; after floating for many hours on 
bales of cotton, with which the boat had been stowed : and 
they were awfully frozen and nearly exhausted.* 



* In one of the accounts of this terrible disaster, published at the time, 
the following remark occurs in reference to the actual or supposed embez- 
zlement of property, some of which was cast on the northern shore of the 
island. " There arc living along that shore a good many people of Indian 
mixture, who get a great part of their living by gleanings from the water." 
Although the writer has a jealous regard for the reputation of his brethren 
on his native isle, his respect for truth will never reconcile him to the un- 
righteous defence of their character, at the expense of the poor Indians. It 
will be seen hereafter, that the remnants of the aboriginal population 
mingled with African blood, are confined exclusively to the south side. 
After diligent inquiry, a few months ago, on the northern shore, where 
many years ago, were a few relics of an Indian tribe, not a single family, 
and scarcely a single individual was known to live on that part of the island. 
And however derogatory it may be to the character of the good people of 



SECT. 5.] CLIMATE, DISEASES, ETC. 41 

The loss of H. B. M. Sloop of War Sylph, was one of the 
most disastrous shipwrecks that ever occurred on the L. I. 
coast. She came on shore near Southampton, in a snow- 
storm, Jan. 16th, 1815. Out of a crew of 117 men, only 6 
survived. This lamentable event took place just one month 
before the news of peace arrived. The fact of its being an 
enemy's ship, and one, in particular, that had previously been 
a great annoyance to our coasting vessels, prevented the pub- 
lic sympathy from being excited to as great a degree as might 
have been the case under different circumstances. But no hu- 
man aid could avail the hapless crew, who perished beneath the 
fury of the tempest and the waves. 

The wreck of the Bristol and the Mexico, which hap- 
pened in rapid succession, nearly 10 years ago, with a similar 
loss of human life, will be found in the annals of Hempstead. 



SECTION V. 

Its Climate, Diseases, &$c. 

It is obvious, that the climate of Long Island must be con- 
siderably modified by the proximity of the ocean, which, be- 
ing cooler in summer and warmer in winter than the adjacent 
lands, must necessarily render the atmosphere more tempe- 
rate than the interior of the country, lying in the same lati- 
tude. Hence it is rare to find the mercury lower than zero, 
and perhaps equally rare that it rises above 90°. The greatest 

Suffolk, a regard to truth demands the disclosure of the fact, that a strange 
impression rests on many minds, especially on the north side, that what- 
ever is driven up by the waves, is the legitimate prey of the finder. There 
are men who would scorn the imputation of taking the most trifling arti- 
cle of their neighhour's property, who would not hesitate, under this mis- 
taken notion of right, to appropriate to their own use, whatever they might 
find on the shore, without making the least effort to discover the rightful 
owner; — not to speak of any direct efforts to conceal the fact. In illus- 
tration, the following fact was recently stated to the writer, by a gentle- 
man of the first respectability residing on the north side of the island : — 
" A few years ago, after a great freshet on the Connecticut river, a dwell- 
ing-house, with all its furniture, floated across the Sound, and grounded 
on the Long Island shore. The owner of the adjacent farm unhesitatingly 
took possession of the windfall ; and it is believed that the carpets and 
beds and other articles are still in his possession and use." This mistaken 
view of morals seems to obtain, in a greater or less degree, on the sea-coast 
of every country, whether barbarous or civilized ; and although the writer 
has a high opinion of the general standard of morals in Suffolk County, he 
is not willing to believe, that the embezzlement of property cast up by the 
waves is to be imputed exclusively to " the people of Indian mixture," 



42 CLIMATE, DISEASES, ETC. [PART 1, 

range in the course of a year is from 95° to 100°, but seldom 
so great as the latter number. 

The prevailing wind is from the southwest ; and the south- 
ern parts are regularly fanned, in the summer season, by the 
sea-breezes, which generally spring up after the middle of the 
day, sometimes earlier, extending their influence quite across 
the island. It is frequently subject to dense fogs, which not 
only envelope the land during cloudy, moist weather, but oc- 
casionally come in from the ocean, in isolated clouds, beneath 
the brightest skies, and for an hour or two completely obscure 
the sun from those parts which they pass over. The traveller, 
oppressed with heat and dazzled with light, in passing over a 
plain, sometimes discovers one of these great sheets spread 
over a circumscribed tract before him. He proceeds a few 
miles, and suddenly finds himself immersed in a dense vapour, 
that not only intercepts the sun from his view, but chills him 
with its cold. After travelling a mile or two, according to the 
breadth of the sheet, he as suddenly emerges from the vapoury 
cloud, into the same bright and genial sun-shine of which he 
had, a short time before, been deprived. The atmosphere is, 
at all times, more or less surcharged with vapour, which, dur- 
ing the prevalence of easterly storms, becomes exceedingly 
oppressive to delicate lungs. 

With these facts in view, the remark will readily be appre- 
ciated, that the cold of this climate, though inferior in degree, 
is less easily borne than in the interior of the country. It is 
so generally accompanied with a sensation of chilliness, or 
shivering, that it is far less tolerable than a dry, cold atmos- 
phere of much greater intensity. 

Though heavy falls of snow frequently occur in the winter 
season, it seldom remains for any considerable length of time, 
and often dissolves with inconceivable rapidity. It is aston- 
ishing to witness the effect of a strong southerly breeze, even 
when unaccompanied with rain, on a large body of snow. Not 
only affecting the surface, but penetrating every part of the 
mass, you can almost see the snow-banks sink, beneath its 
consuming influence. As an illustration of these remarks, a 
single fact may be stated. On the 24th and 25th of Nov., 
1809, there was a heavy fall of snow, which, being accompa- 
nied with a tremendous wind, was driven into heaps so vast, 
as rendered the roads impassable, and seemed likely to stand, 
as monuments of the storm, till the close of winter. The 
clearing off was from the south, which was followed by seve- 
ral successive days of warm southerly w r ind, attended with a 



SECT. 5.] CLIMATE, DISEASES, ETC. 43 

moist atmosphere and an occasional dash of rain. By the 
29th of the month, not a vestige of the snow could be discov- 
ered within a compass of miles. 

From the description which has been given, it might be 
supposed that the climate of Long Island is unfavourable to 
health and the prolongation of human life ; but such a con- 
clusion, it is believed, would be incorrect. It is indeed true, 
that this pleasant isle is included within the wide domains of 
" the king of terrors," and that his messengers, in the various 
forms in which they appear in other parts of this fallen world, 
find abundant employment here. But there is little pecu- 
liarity in the character of the diseases incident to this latitude, 
or in the severity of their attack. The usual fevers of the 
country, with their varied type, are found here.; and the com- 
mon epidemics, which sometimes spread consternation and 
desolation through a community, occasionally invade these re- 
tired shores. But their prevalence, it is believed, is rarely as 
extensive or general as often marks their ravages in other 
parts of the land. 

The same modification or change of prevalent diseases, 
which has been noticed in various regions of the country, is 
observable here. The common pleurisy was in ancient times 
a very prevalent disease on Long Island ; and at the close of 
every winter, it was a common thing to see the most robust 
and healthy men, as well as the feebler constitutions of both 
sexes, prostrated by that disease, which was frequently at- 
tended with a fatal result. From the best information that 
can be obtained, it is believed that, for the last 50 or 60 years, 
the occurrence of this disease is much less frequent ; and either 
from the diminished force of the attack, or a more skilful 
mode of treating it, a fatal result is comparatively rare. 

Some of the towns of the island have evidently improved in 
health, with the increase of their population, and the conse- 
quent improvement of their soil. For example : the town of 
Easthampton, for many years after its settlement, experienced 
a great mortality, in comparison with the number of its in- 
habitants. 

"From the year 1751 to 1775," says Dr. Beecher, "there were the 
highest bills of mortality. In this period of 24 years, the bill of mortality 
arose twice to 3d, once to 37, once to 36, once to 32, once to 30 ; it often ex- 
ceeded 25, and once arose to 51 — this was in the year 1775. Since that 
time, a period of 3D years, there have been but two years, before the present, 
in which the bill of mortality exceeded 20. It has been as low as 9. In 
this sickly period of 24 years, there died 642. In the 30 years since, there 
have died 405 ; making a difference of 237. The average mortality per 
annum of this 24 years was about 26|. The average mortality of the last 



44 CLIMATE, DISEASES, ETC. [PART 1, 

30 years is 16|; making a difference of 10 persons annually, notwith- 
standing the increased population of the town, which has been very con. 
siderable. 

" The cause of this surprising change is ascribed by many to the death 
of the prim, which constituted a principal part of the fencing of the town, 
all of which died suddenly and unaccountably, about the time that this fa- 
vourable change took place. But whether it was the noxious qualities of 
this plant, or the noxious qualities of the air on which the vegetation of 
this plant depended, and which being removed produced death to the ve- 
getable and health to animal life, I shall not attempt to decide. The dis- 
orders most prevalent in this sickly period were acute fevers, sometimes 
terminating life in 36 hours, and often in 3 or 4 days. 

" In the year 1726 a remarkable sickness, called the sweating sickness, 
made its appearance in this place, desolated several families, and threat- 
ened a very great mortality. It did not, however, become general. The 
patients were taken with most profuse sweatings, in which state they con- 
tinued till death. The same disease prevailed in England about the same 
time, and carried off one half of the inhabitants of many villages. 

"The past year (1805) has been a season of uncommon mortality. 
There is but one year in the history of the town that exceeds it. Our 
bill has arisen to 39. The sickness most prevalent was commonly termed 
the dysentery ; by others termed a bilious diarrhoea. It prevailed al- 
most universally ; three-fourths of the people being, it was supposed, af- 
fected by it, in some degree ; but its most fatal influence was confined to 
the aged, and to children." (Dr. Beechefs Historical Sermon, delivered 
Jan. 1st, 1806.*) 

The intermittent fever has not been an uncommon disease 
on Long Island. Even on the eastern branches, where there are 
no stagnant waters, that disease was frequent, at the com- 
mencement of the present century. The late Dr. Gilbert of 
New-Haven, Conn., who was a practitioner in Southold, in 
1805, informed the writer, that he had frequent cases of that 
disease, and in two or three instances, attended with fatal re- 
sults. In each case, death occurred in the third paroxysm, by 
paralysis, apparently induced by the cold stage. 

* With the noble example of this sermon before them, is it not a matter 
of deep regret that the clergy of Long Island have not long since favoured 
the public with a detailed history of their respective towns and congrega- 
tions ? Had this been done, the present work would have been needless, 
or, at least, might have been accomplished more effectually, with one tenth 
part of the labour. Besides, with every generation, numberless incidents 
of an interesting and instructive character are buried up in the grave. 
There arc now, doubtless, many such facts, which the writer has been un- 
able to obtain, that are yet within the reach of the ministers of the seve- 
ral towns, and may easily be placed in a permanent form, by a little re- 
search and extra labour. Several of the pastors on the western part of the 
island have, of late, done good service to their congregations and to the 
public in this way. Will not every other pastor do the same, by the close 
of another year ? They cannot do a more popular act for the living, or 
one that will be more acceptable to posterity. 



SECT. 6.] CLIMATE, DISEASES, ETC. 45 

Fever and Ague have been common, of late years, in many 
of the western towns. But as the swamps have become more 
effectually drained, and the lowlands improved, this disease 
has gradually disappeared, till its occurrence is rarely wit- 
nessed. 

There is one exception to the general remark, which has 
been made, on the absence of all peculiarity of diseases on 
the island, which is deserving of special notice ; and the more 
so, as the writer is not aware, that public attention has ever 
been called to the fact. It is confidently believed, that in the 
eastern towns of Long Island, more cases of tetanus, (lock- 
jaw,) occur, than in any other part, if not, in all the remain- 
ing parts of the State. Whether this has always been the case, 
the writer has not the means of determining. The remark 
is confined to the last 40 or 50 years, the period of his own 
observation. This may be pronounced a common disease ; 
and more or less cases occur every year. And it is worthy 
of particular remark, that it often results, not only from a 
slight wound, or puncture of the limbs, but in numerous in- 
stances, from a sudden cold, without any known or discover- 
able external injury. 

Nor are the assaults of this disease confined to the human 
subject. It is quite as common, if not more so, in all its cha- 
racteristic peculiarities, among the brute tribes. A horse 
has been known to fall a victim to this disease, from no other 
known cause than exposure to cold, after suffering a slight 
gall from the saddle or harness. Lambs and other animals, 
after undergoing the emasculating operation, frequently fall 
a prey to this destroyer. 

These attacks are so common, and physicians are so fre- 
quently constrained to devote attention to the subject, that 
the disease is not always attended with fatal consequences. 
The writer has borne witness to the restoration of its subject, 
even after the development of the malady in its most threat- 
ening form. But in every case, it appears to leave the consti- 
tution with an increased liability to a renewed attack, under 
the influence of the least exciting cause. 

That the climate and other influential causes on Long Is- 
land are, on the whole, favourable to longevity, may be justly 
inferred from the large proportion of aged persons to be found 
there. A stranger cannot enter one of their churches, beyond 
the atmosphere and moral influence of the great cities, with- 
out being struck, and the more deeply as he approaches the 
east end, with the great number of grey heads, and venerable 



46 CLIMATE, DISEASES. ETC. [ PART 1, 

forms, which are assembled together. And this fact is re- 
duced to the certainty of numbers, by referring to the U. S. 
census. 

In IB 10, the county of Suffolk, with an aggregate popula- 
tion of 32,469, embraced 841 white persons, (a little more 
than every fortieth individual,) who were more than three score 
years and ten. 

To present a comparative view with the interior of the 
state', take" the county of Schoharie, whose population is with- 
in 111 of the same amount; and there you rind only 596 
persons over 70 years of age. Should it be said, that this is 
comparatively a new county, and as new countries are gene- 
rally settled by young and enterprising emigrants from older 
settlements, while the aged are left behind, the comparison is 
not a fair one. To obviate this objection, take the county of 
Columbia, which has been settled long enough to remove any 
disparity arising from this cause. With its population of 
43,252, which is almost 11,000 more than that of Suffolk, it 
ought to have 1,130 persons of 70 years and upwards. But 
its actual number is only 956 — only 111 more than Suffolk. 
Again, taking the county of Monmouth in New Jersey, 
whose population exceeds that of Suffolk by 440, and there 
you find only 637 individuals over 70. From the great simi- 
larity between these two counties, in the face of the coun- 
try, the nature of the soil, and their relative position with re- 
spect to the ocean, it would seem that some other cause than 
that of climate, must operate in favour of old Suffolk. 

It is a matter of regret, that the prescribed forms, for taking 
the last census, have grouped together the Insane and Idiots ; 
two classes of unfortunate beings, involved indeed in a situa- 
tion similar, so far as destitution of reason is concerned, but 
from causes as diverse as can well be imagined, thereby ren- 
dering the result of the investigation nearly as useless, for all 
physical or physiological inquiries, as if these particulars had 
been left out of the census. It is especially to be regretted 
here, as the opinion has sometimes been expressed, that ner- 
vous diseases are peculiarly prevalent on Long Island. If this 
is a fact, it might be rationally inferred, that cases of insanity 
would be somewhat increased here. This inference is not 
sustained, however by the last census, so far as it throws any 
light on the subject. The number of Insane and Idiots, in 
the various counties which have been compared, is severally 
as follows : Suffolk 24— Schoharie 21— Columbia 38— Mon- 
mouth, N. J. 45. 



SECT. 5.] CLIMATE, DISEASES, ETC. 47 

l.^n Pr ,°K P T ti0 r n o ° f «- a f d Ve °f e m Queen ' s Count y « "mai- 
ler than that of Suffolk; and is about on a par with Mon- 
mouth. ' 

So large a portion of the population of King's County is 
comprehended in the City of Brooklyn, and the village of 
Wilhamsburgh, which, besides the evils resulting Wtheir 
own dense population, are so constantly involved in the at- 
mosphere, both physical and moral, of the great metropolis, 
tnat he proportion of aged persons might be expected o be 
greatly reduced. There is only 1 i„ 113, above 70 years of 

TUl , CoU P t y ° f Ki "S' s - *» Edition to tl/causes 
which have been hinted at, it will be recollected that the emi- 
gratior, jnto all our cities, consists principally of the young, 
while the more advanced are left behind. 
. On the whole, it is believed that the climate of Loner Island 
is as salubrious and favourable to longevity as that of any 
other part of this wide-spread country ' 

In connection with this article, two anomalous cases of dis- 
eases are here appended, which will not only be interesting 
to the general reader, but are worthy of the investigation of 
the naturalist and the intellectual philosopher. 
nnl D r ■ '' an u h ° f B L ri dgehampton, S. P., a maiden lady is 

O if, Zft W AV Va ? b ° rn ' n that P lace Mar <* 28th, 1778. 

On the 24th of March 1802, after enduring great fatigue in at 
tending the sick bed of her father, (who died on the 26th of 
the following month,) she was taken sick. An emetic was 
administered by the family physician, which operated whh 
uncontrollable violence, and brought her apparently to the 
yery verge of Me From that day to the present-^ period 
of 43 years-she has not borne her weight, nor walked as en 

nte r ra e ii:^; en tf° ',° ? b an 6reCt ^ She ha, fcS 
hterally bed-ridden, during the whole time, and incapable of 

being moved from one bed to another, except with the great 

est caution, without inducing the most violent vomiting^ 

noe vC rS almot e ; a ^ y "", ° f her c ° nfi "< this^occur- 
rence was a most daily, and was always provoked by the 

^IZ fZ T?< th ? jar 7? of the floor > or «» ^ 

were^^l I t hodstead > a "d it would be incredible if it 
were stated what immense quantities of liquid .bearing a re 
semblance to coffee-grounds} Ae discharged, in a given^me 

p oceeded to the apparent extinction of almost every vital 
function, and yet the system would rally again, onW to suffer 
renewed prostration. At an early stage o, this singular Tm 



48 CLIMATE, DISEASES, ETC [PART 1, 

disposition, her vocal organs were affected. During one par- 
oxysm she became sensible, to use her own language, " of 
something breaking internally, and I thought I must die; and 
for years I could not speak above a whisper. My stomach 
has always been the point of disease." For many years she 
lost all relish for food, and to the present day there are certain 
common articles of diet, (such as milk, butter, or any fat or 
acid,) which her stomach cannot bear. 

A diversity of treatment, under the direction of different 
medical men, has been resorted to, but without relief. Vari- 
ous expedients were contrived to afford gentle exercise, such 
as a rockiiig-cradle and a swinging-chair, but always with the 
same alarming effects. In the latter case, the first two trials 
were attended with such a result, as to induce her friends to 
decline the experiment. But she, determined on giving it a 
fair trial, secretly procured a neighbour to place her in the 
chair, from which she was taken with the mere breath of life 
remaining. From that time, by the advice of the physician, 
no means have been used to promote exercise. 

A change of residence, however, has rendered a removal 
necessary, in three or four instances. But though conducted 
with the greatest care, the removal has, in every case, nearly 
cost her her life. The last was made in 1S19, since which 
time she has never been placed in a chair. 

What renders the case still more remarkable, is the fact, 
that during this long period, the patient has repeatedly suffered 
under acute diseases. In 1805, she was attacked by dysen- 
tery, and was brought to death's door ; and since that time 
she has had several attacks of the same complaint. In 1820, 
she was brought very low by a bilious fever. Of late years 
her general health appears to be improved. She has become 
somewhat fleshy, her countenance presents a healthy aspect, 
her voice strong, and her spirits, as they have ever been, are 
cheerful and firm. She can even turn herself in bed, though 
her removal, once a week, from one bed to another, with the 
greatest care, is the only locomotion which she endures. 
° Such is a brief outline of this very"singular case ; and it is 
related, not on second-hand authority, but from personal 
knowledge and observation. The writer has been acquainted 
with the individual, has repeatedly visited her within the 
last forty years, and has either witnessed, or received from 
her own mouth, every fact above detailed, and a great deal 
more. And it has been his privilege to admire the singular 



SSCT. 5.J CLIMATE, DISEASES, ETC 1 1 

patience and quiet resignation of the sufferer under these un- 
exampled afflictions. 

As a physical 'phenomenon, the case is sufficiently remark- 
able ; but, if circumstances permitted a recital of the pecu- 
liarities of a moral and religious character with which it is 
connected, it would be as instructive to the Christian as it is 
interesting to the physician. It may not be improper to add, 
that during the greater part of this time, the patient, when re- 
lieved of deadly sickness at the stomach, has enjoyed the free 
use of her hands ; and it might seem incredible, if stated, how 
much light work has been performed by one in these untoward 
circumstances. She commenced v/ith picking cotton, she then 
acquired the art of making silk buttons, which afforded her a 
considerable income, till they were superseded, by improved 
inventions. Then, through the aid of a friend, she obtained 
the art of manufacturing infant-socks, by which, in a compara- 
tively short time, she purchased a set of Scott's Commentary, 
at the price at which it was sold twenty years ago. She is 
now able to knit men's stockings, which is at present her 
principal employment. Few persons enjoying perfect health, 
and free intercourse with the world, are better acquainted 
with the present state of the Christian world, particularly the 
missionary cause, than this long-afflicted and enchained indi- 
vidual. Reading has been her principal entertainment, as it 
is only now and then that she enjoys, in her secluded situa- 
tion, the visit of a friend. But no one that loves the Saviour 
and his reflected image, can spend an hour with this peculiar 
sufferer without being entertained with her cheerful, pious 
conversation ; and going away with increased motives to 
submit quietly to the little ills of human life. 

It may be added that her means of support have long since 
been exhausted ; and though she may calmly feel, as the 
writer heard her say not long ago, " that God, who has taken 
care of me hitherto, will give me all I need : He has not pro- 
mised me delicacies, but, if I am his child, he will give me all 
that is best for me ;" yet now, when approaching her three 
score years and ten, she has a peculiar claim on the sympa- 
thies and prayers, and substantial aid of pious friends. And 
this is one object in bringing this singular case to the notice 
of the churches. There are probably thousands of Christiana 
on the island, to whom this detail will be entirely new. 

The other case will be found still more remarkable, in its 
application to the philosophy of the mind. The facts, how- 
ever, may be relied on, as the writer has been acquainted with 

3 



90 CLIMATE, DISEASES, ETC. [PART 1, 

the individual from the fourth year of his age, and he is still 
living. 

E. L. was born at Sag Harbour, Oct. 30th, 1802. He was 
a boy of good common sense, with no striking peculiarity of 
taste or genius. Enjoying the usual privileges of education, 
he made very commendable progress in his studies. At the 
age of fourteen, he had obtained a good common education, 
and commenced learning the business of rope-making. His 
health had been uniformly good, until the winter of 18} 5 — 16, 
when he was attacked with a fever of the typhoid type, by 
which he was brought very low, and his life despaired of. 
During this sickness, he was the subject of strong spasmodic 
affections, by which his frame was distorted, and his lower 
limbs very much contracted. At length, however, the disease 
gave way, and he began to recover very gradually. But the 
contraction of his limbs was protracted, so that for several 
months after leaving his bed, he was unable to move about, 
except on his hands and knees. But the most remarkable ef- 
fect of the disease was upon his mind. He had lost, not only 
all knowledge of his friends, and everything that he had 
learned before, but all consciousness of his former identity. 
The sense of hearing appeared to be annihilated ; and though 
in the course of a year, he recovered the power of speech, and 
could use some terms of language, yet the entire misapplica- 
tion of them proved that he had no idea of their import. A 
few examples, out of a multitude, will illustrate this. Dollars, 
he called junks ; one of his best friends, he always addressed 
by the singular appellation of cakes ; another, he called 
chestnuts ; and going to church was school. This was, per- 
haps, the nearest approximation to correctness that could be 
found in his imperfect vocabulary. For years, his friends 
could converse with him only by signs, while his replies were 
made in a similar manner, aided by his singular jargon. 

His restoration to bodily health was marked by the exhibi- 
tion of acute good sense, though accompanied with tastes and 
tendencies, which he had never exhibited before ; some of 
which well deserve the name of whims % and they were per- 
fectly uncontrollable. He would not taste food in his father's 
house, and for more than a year, he would regularly crawl 
some thirty rods to his grandfather's door, to receive his meals. 
And then, he would sleep nowhere but under his father's roof. 
In Feb. 1819, his grandfather died, and from that hour he took 
up his lodging with his widowed grandmother. 

With the recovery of the usp of his limbs, he manifested n 



SECT. 5.] CLIMATE, DISEASES, ETC. 51 

disposition for active employment, and following his own in- 
clination, entered as a common hand on board a coasting 
vessel. The want of hearing was scarcely an obstruction to 
the performance of duty. With his keen eye always turned 
to the commander, and apprehending, at a glance, the import 
of a motion, no man could vie with him in the execution of an 
order. In the winter season, being cut off from his favourite 
occupation, he exhibited a tact for different mechanical em- 
ployments, for which, in his previous life, he had exhibited no 
sort of taste. One winter, he worked in a tin-shop, manufac- 
turing articles of tin-ware. Another he spent in a joiner's 
shop, where, of his own accord, he commenced a cutter or 
sleigh ; which, after being far advanced, he never completed, 
for a reason that will hereafter appear. During this period, 
he was visited by friends and near relations, to whom he had 
been ardently attached ; but it was impossible to convince 
him that he had ever seen them before. Of this number was 
the writer's family, whom he met and parted with as utter 
strangers. 

There was one amusement of his former life, to which his 
attachment appeared to remain undiminished ; and this under 
a kind Providence, seems to have been the appointed means 
of restoring him to his former self, or consciousness. He had 
always been fond of gunning ; and he still loved that sport. 
In Feb. 1820, he spent a day or two, shooting ducks; and, 
upon returning home at night, complained of a severe pain in 
the side of his head. The result is best described in his own 
language, contained in a letter addressed, a day or two after 
to the writer, the recollection of whom, had for the first time, 
since his sickness, recurred to his mind. 

" I went to bed with a dreadful pain in my head. In the course of the 
night, something ran out of my ear. I woke up, and heard tke wind blow 
against the house; and it frightened me. I covered up my head, and fell 
asleep. In the morning I was waked by a cat mewing in the hall, and it 
scared me dreadfully. At length, I got up, and went down stairs. My 
father began to make signs to me to rake open the fire and put on some 
wood. Said I, father, you needn't make signs, I can hear as well as you 
can." 

The result was, that from that hour his former conscious- 
ness was restored : or rather, he had apparently awaked the 
same person, and at the very same point, at which disease had 
arrested him 4 years before. All his former knowledge was 
restored ; and although now grown nearly to the stature of a 
man, be exhibited all the marks of a boy of 14 ; — while the 



52 THE ROADS. [pAET 1, 

whole intermediate period was, in its turn, erased from his 
mind. When shown his unfinished sleigh, he could not be 
made to believe that it was his own work, as he declared, he 
never had any taste for mechanical employment ; and it must 
remain as it was, if its completion depended on him. The 
only event of the intervening period that had left anything like 
a permanent impression on his present memory, was the death 
of his grandfather ; and that, he said, appeared more like the 
recollection of a dream, than a reality. 

This same individual afterwards became a sea-captain, and 
has been, for many years, one of the most successful ship- 
masters, that sail out of the port of New- York. He was among 
the first that banished intoxicating liquors from his ship ; and 
though he has encountered storms that have proved fatal to 
others, he has never met with a serious disaster, at sea or in 
port. 

Though some account of this singular case was published, 
in the newspapers of the day, its peculiarity renders it worthy 
of preservation, in a more permanent form. 

SECTION VI. 
The Roads, 

The roads of Long Island are exceedingly numerous and 
difficult for strangers. There are three principal avenues run- 
ning nearly through the whole length of the Island, which are 
distinguished, as the North, Middle, and South Roads. These 
are not only intersected by others leading from one town and 
neighbourhood to another, but, in the most uninhabited parts, 
there are numberless wood- paths, well-worn by constant cart- 
ing, which vary so little from the course of the main road, and 
not unfrequently appear the most direct, and most used, that 
the stranger is constantly liable to go astray ; and that too, 
where he might remain a whole day, without meeting a per- 
son to set him right. Some of these turn-outs have been 
guarded by guide-boards ; but in general the inhabitants have 
been too inattentive to this important provision. The only 
apology is, that they are not great travellers themselves ; and, 
until of late years, so few from abroad resort thither, either 
for business or pleasure, that it is scarcely an object to incur 
the expense, merely for their occasional convenience. 

A large portion of the South and Middle roads, after you 
enter the County of Suffolk, lead through those large sandy 



SECT. 6.] THE ROADS. 53 

plains and forests, which have been previously described. And 
to one who has never travelled such a region of country, it is 
impossible to convey an adequate idea of the inconvenience 
and obstruction to locomotion which are here presented. Af- 
ter a heavy rain, if only a single carriage has preceded you to 
open the ruts, you may get along with tolerable speed ; pro- 
vided (which is a matter of great doubt) your wheels fit the 
track. But in a time of drought, the sand in many places is 
so fine, deep and fluid, that you may travel for miles with the 
lower felloe of your wheels constantly buried out of sight. 

But while the people of Long Island are not to blame for 
the natural condition of their roads ; for, unlike many other 
parts of the country, they have not selected the best lands 
for themselves, and devoted the hills and hollows and slough- 
holes to the roads, but have given as good as they had ; they 
are entitled to great credit, in many places, for the efforts 
which have been made, with vast toil and expense, to improve 
upon nature. Where a bed of loam has been discovered, 
they have dug out and hauled thousands and thousands of 
loads, covering the whole path from six to twelve inches deep, 
for miles in succession. By this process the road soon becomes 
compact, and by the gradual admixture with the sand, im- 
proves for many years ; though, like all human works, it does 
not become everlasting ; but its advantage is seen for a long 
period. 

A view of the worst features of Long Island roads has been 
taken first, that the reader might not be compelled to finish 
this topic in disgust. Let him not therefore suppose that he 
has hitherto had a fair specimen of all the roads on this strand 
of the ocean. The entire counties of King's and Queen's, 
both in their public roads and numerous turnpikes, present 
as pleasant journeying for man, and as comfortable travelling 
for beast, in every direction, and at all seasons of the year, as 
any other equal district in the state. And the north side of 
the island throughout furnishes a compact substratum and ex- 
cellent materials for roads, though there is too much reason to 
complain of negligence in their improvement. The most of 
the labour done in cutting down hills and filling up valleys, 
which are here very frequent, is performed by the direct 
agency of water, during copious rains. The work thus exe- 
cuted, without the direction of human intelligence, receives a 
few finishing strokes from the hand of man, when the neces- 
sity is imposed by some frightful gully formed, or some huge 
rock dislodged, by the powerful but senseless agent. 



54 THE ROADS. [PART 1, 

The roads on the two eastern branches of the island, are 
for the most part excellent. And here, fanned by the balmy- 
sea-breeze, and cheered by the delightful contrast of land and 
water scenery, you may ride for miles on an unbroken trot. 
But there is one peculiarity in the main highway, on the 
southern branch of the island, which must be noticed. As 
you approach the village of Southampton from the west, at a 
distance of two miles, you would imagine that the projectors 
of such a road supposed themselves possessed of a continent, 
a large portion of which they would never need to cultivate. 
The high-way is here 16 rods wide, and it continues from that 
down to 8 or 10 rods, through a distance of 10 miles. Thus 
hundreds of acres of land, naturally as fertile as the adjoin- 
ing fields, are permitted to lie, year after year, covered with 
luxuriant weeds, or split up into triangles and parallelograms 
by a score of needless paths. The reader may ask, " why was 
this waste made?" or, if there was a good reason for the ori- 
ginal arrangement, why it is continued when land has become 
so valuable ? The most satisfactory answer to the last inquiry 
probably is, that on this part of the island, the fences are com- 
posed in a great measure of living material. A removal there- 
fore, as fencing timber is scarce, might be attended with more 
expense than the land is worth. 

The same peculiarity exists in Easthampton, with this dif- 
ference only, that from the first settlement of the town, the 
middle of the main street has been devoted to the sacred pur- 
pose of receiving the ashes of the dead ! And it is remark- 
able, that till within a few years, the two principal burying 
grounds so situated, and constantly increasing in tenants, till 
one of them had almost reached the cart-path, remained un- 
shielded by a single post, or even a tree. To the credit of the 
present generation, they have both been recently enclosed. 

From Bridgehampton to Sag Harbour the road is naturally 
sandy ; and here a turnpike of four and a half miles has been 
constructed, which is a decided improvement. 

The introduction of Turnpikes upon the island was an 
event of some interest in its history, and one which produced 
not a little excitement in the public mind. The idea of hav- 
ing a public highway fenced up, and of obliging every man 
to pay for the privilege of riding on the road, was even more 
obnoxious, as an infringement of natural right, than as a pe- 
cuniary tax on the pockets of the people. Hence, the first 
applications for the incorporation of Turnpike Companies, 
met with a determined opposition. 



SECT. 6.] THE ROADS. 55 

The Brooklyn and Jamaica Turnpike Company was first 
incorporated. The experience of a short period, after the 
road was completed, soon produced a change of public 
opinion. Hostility was disarmed. The farmers not only 
found their rights unimpaired, but they soon discovered that 
the trifling toll they had to pay, was more than compensated 
by the saving of time, and the wear and tear of their wag- 
gons and teams. This soon led to the multiplication of turn- 
pikes. 

The road was extended from Jamaica to Hempstead on the 
south side of the Plains, and to Jericho on the north. The 
Jericho turnpike was still further extended to Smithtown. 

On the north side there is a turnpike from Williamsburgh, 
through Newtown and Flushing, to Hempstead Harbour, 
which has lately been extended to Oysterbay. 

There is also a turnpike from Williamsburgh to Jamaica, 
and from Brooklyn to Flatbush. 

A straight turnpike road from Hempstead to Babylon, pass- 
ing through Farmingdale, has not been completed. 

The short turnpike at Sag Harbour, previously mentioned, 
completes the list of these roads on the island. 

There is a number of toll-bridges on Long Island. The 
village of Williamsburgh, being partially surrounded by Bush- 
wick Creek, has four long bridges on the north and east on 
the great thoroughfares leading to Jamaica and Newtown. 
At Flushing, across the head of Flushing Bay, is a noble bridge, 
which has greatly shortened the* distance between that place 
and New- York. The bridge across Gowanus Bay in Brooklyn, 
the little one at Coney Island, and that at Sag Harbour con- 
necting the village with Hog Neck, complete the list of those 
that are worthy of distinct notice. 

The Rail Road. 

If free intercourse with the world is desirable for indi- 
viduals and communities, and if the interests of both are pro- 
moted by facilities for holding such intercourse, then a rail 
road would seem to be as desirable for Long Island as almost 
any part of the world. Its distance from the main land, ex- 
cepting at one end, its extreme length, and the unsuitable na- 
ture of a great part of its soil for comfortable roads, have ne- 
cessarily confined a large portion of its population to the spot 
on which they were born. True, the facilities of travelling 
by water have been considerable : but this has always been 
attended with a great expense of time, and with a degree of 



&6 KAII. KOAP. [FART 3, 

danger, that renders it formidable to many minds. Besides 
this, during at least one third part of the year, even this 
mode of intercourse is entirely suspended, or attended with 
such increased hazard, as nothing but imperious necessity 
would induce a man to incur. The necessary consequence 
is, that locomotion, at least to any distance from home, is al- 
most unknown on Long Island. The writer has heard men 
sixty years of age say, that they were never 20 miles from 
the spot on which they were born ; and no doubt, there are 
many now living, who never breathed the atmosphere of more 
than two towns in their lives. Seclusion from distant parts,, 
instead of making them restless, seems to have confirmed the 
habit of staying at home. Even short journeys become irk- 
some to those who seldom or never make long ones. 

To people thus situated, in almost entire seclusion from the 
rest of the world, a rail road must open new and unconceived 
facilities, which, in its operation, must produce an amazing, 
revolution in the manners and habits of the community. 

The Brooklyn and Jamaica Rail Road Company was in- 
corporated April 25th, 1832, but the road was not completed 
and opened till April 18th, 1836. 

On that day ground was broken for its continuance through 
the island, by the Long Island Rail Road Company, which 
had been incorporated April 24th, 1834. It was completed 
to Hicksville and cars placed thereon in August, 1837. — In 
1841, it was extended to Suffolk Station. 

In 1843-4 the work was prosecuted to the terminus ; and 
on the 25th of July 1844, the first train of cars passed from 
Brooklyn to Greenport, 95 miles, where the opening of the 
road was duly celebrated. 

This event forms a new era in the history of the island ; 
and in its results, has virtually altered both its form and loca- 
tion. Even the eastern extremities, are now brought almost 
into the suburbs of New- York. Thirty years ago, it was m 
tedious journey of three days, to travel by stage from East- 
hampton or Oysterponds to Brooklyn. But now the inhabit- 
ants of either of those towns, may dine at home, and take tea 
in New- York ; then breakfast in New-York and dine at 
liome. 

This Rail Road is one of the straightest, and most uniform* 
©f its length, in the United States. After proceeding with 
scarcely a perceptible curvature, from Brooklyn to Jamaica,, 
it passes in a straight course, through the middle of the Grea's: 
Plain, to Hicksville, sending off by the way* a branch oi" 



SECT. 6.] RAIL E0AI3. 57 

three miles to Hempstead. At Hicksville, it veers for three 
or four miles to the south, to avoid the hills. Then resuming 
its easterly course, it proceeds with little variation to tho 
head of Peconick Bay or Riverhead. Here taking the 
northern branch it proceeds, with a slight variation to the 
north, to Greenport, ten miles short of Oysterpond Point ; and 
the whole distance is ordinarily performed by the Boston train, 
making two short stops merely to replenish fuel and water, 
in three and a quarter hours ; and has been accomplished with 
entire safety in 2 hours and 35 minutes. An accommoda- 
tion train, making numerous stops, and travelling with less 
speed, performs the route daily, in alternate directions, in five 
or six hours. 

It is so common a thing with other Rail Roads, it is scarce- 
ly necessary to say, that the site of this road is through the 
most sterile and desolate parts of the island. After leaving 
Jamaica, you scarcely see a village or a farm of good land, 
till you reach the terminus ; but barren plains or forests of 
scrub oak, or stinted pine, environ the traveller on either hand. 
The principal villages, as well as the best land, are to be found 
on the sides of the island. 

It is impossible to divine the amazing changes, which this 
improvement will effect on both the intellectual and secular 
interests of the eastern parts of the island. The inhabitants 
have scarcely yet recovered from the consternation produced 
by the actual opening of this Road. Though during its con- 
struction, its future facilities were often foretold, multitudes 
regarded them as the vagaries of a disordered brain ; or, more 
frequently, the wilful misrepresentations of interested indi- 
viduals, who wished to obtain a passage through their stinted 
pines and sandy plains, for a mere song. But, until they be- 
held with their own eyes, the cumbrous train of cars, drawn 
by an iron horse, spouting forth smoke and steam, passing 
like a steed of lightning through their forests and fields, with 
such velocity that they could not tell whether the countenances 
of the passengers were human, celestial or infernal, they would 
not believe that a Rail Road had power almost to annihilate 
both time and space. But then they cried out with united 
voice *' The one-half was not told." 

As a sample of the changes produced by this improved mode 
of travelling and an earnest of what may yet be effected, even 
on the most retired parts of the island, the following case is 
stated. About seven miles east of the actual centre of the 
island, and in the midst of the great pine forests, about mid- 

3* 



58 KAIL KOAD. [PA 1, 

way between the middle and south roads, is a little scattered 
settlement of some twenty or thirty families. The spot on 
which it stands, was originally a part of a great tract patent- 
ed under the name of " St. George's Manor." Its ecclesiasti- 
cal name, bestowed upon it some forty years ago is Brookjield ; 
but its vernacular appellation, from time immemorial, has been 
" Punk's Hole," so called from the name of its first pioneer. 
The retired and almost isolated situation of the settlement, 
and the principal part of the inhabitants being constantly oc- 
cupied in cutting down and transporting the surrounding 
forests, the place was seldom visited by strangers, or even by 
the inhabitants of the adjacent towns ; unless they happened 
to get lost in the woods. A more retired solitude, in the 
midst of an inhabited country, could neither be found nor ima- 
gined. And had a man, thirty years ago, ventured to pre- 
dict that this spot was destined to become a daily stopping 
place for the refreshment of hundreds of travellers between 
New-York and Boston, he would have been considered a 
madman ; and possibly might have been bound with cords, 
for fear he might do injury. The good people would not 
even have thought it necessary to say, " If the Lord would 
make windows in heaven, might this thing be ?" And yet 
such is now the sober fact. Punk's Hole, under the more pa- 
pistical name of " St. George's Manor," is one of the two stop- 
ping places between Greenport and Brooklyn, and has even 
become a landing place for passengers of the adjacent towns. 
It is to be devoutly wished, that all the advantages of a rail 
road may be realized by this hitherto secluded island ; and 
that its inhabitants may be preserved from the demoralizing 
influences which have, too often accompanied these modern 
improvements. Without this, the exchange would prove an 
unprofitable bargain. For a while the most serious apprehen- 
sions were justly entertained. When the road was completed 
to Hicksville, and gradually extended, into Suffolk, it was 
made for years, a regular Sabbath-breaking concern. And in 
anticipation of its continuance and extension, the good people 
of the eastern towns, instead of rejoicing in the secular bene- 
fits which they were to realize, began to " hang their harps 
on the willows" and pour out bitter lamentations, in view of 
the moral desolations that were to set in upon them. But a 
brighter prospect is presented. The Rail Road has been com- 
pleted, and throughout its entire length, not a car moves on 
the Sabbath-day. This important concession to correct senti- 
ment, deserves the approbation and support of all good citi- 



SECT. 6.] 



BAIL EOAD. 



59 



zens ; and it is to be hoped that their patronage will make 
this arrangement profitable to the Company. 

The following exhibit of the elevation above tide-water, of 
the L. I. Rail Road, at various points, through the whole line, 
politely furnished the author by James Shipman, Esq., Engi- 
neer of the road, will afford the reader a very satisfactory idea, 
of the height of different parts of the Island. 



Brooklyn termination, * 

Bedford, . 

Watering place at East New York, 

Jamaica, . 

Hempstead branch, 

Hicksville, . 

Farmingdale, 

Suffolk Station, 

Med ford Station, 

Millville, . 

St. George's Manor, 

Riverhead, . 

Mattituck, 

Cutchogue, 

Southold, 

Greenport, , 







Height 


Distance. 


above night. 

tide. 

7 feet 





miles. 


2| 




73 


2 




83 


6 




40 


7 




103 


8 




142 


5 




63 


13 




90 


11 




82 


5 




49 


7 




46 


7 




32 


10 




16 


2 




47 


5 




42 


4 




m 



95 



It is a matter to be deeply regretted, that an improvement 
so intimately connected with the interests of Long Island, 
should not have been made to the entire satisfaction, and with 
the favor of the people When we recollect, that most of 
the rail roads in the country have met with great opposition 
from those through whose possessions they pass, it cannot be 
thought strange that these isolated people, with no experi- 
mental knowledge of the advantages of the scheme, should, 
from the outset, have regarded the road as an undesirable im- 
provement. And then, the extensive and awfully destructive 
fires, which, in the past season, through alleged carelessness, 
have swept over immense tracts of land, have vastly increased 
the irritation of the public mind. 

The extent of these disastrous conflagrations can scarcely 
be conceived of, without ocular examination. To talk of 
thousands of acres, is scarcely an approximation to the reality. 
In several places, the entire forests for eight or ten miles in 
Jength, and from two to four in breadth, have been completely- 
swept over by the devouring element, which, besides destroy- 
ing every vestige of vegetation, consumed thousands of cords 



60 1 CIVIL AND POLITICAL DIVISIONS % [PART 1? 

of wood that had been cot and piled. The only value attach* 
ed to these vast tracts of land, is derived from the timber they 
bear, and when this is destroyed, they become absolutely 
worthless, at least to the present generation. By these unpre- 
cedented calamities, multitudes have suffered great losses, 
many have been deprived of their entire supply of fuel, while 
some have absolutely lost their all.* 

Under these circumstances, the great excitement among, 
the people of Suffolk county, is certainly no matter of sur- 
prise. And, although the violence which has been threatened 
k> the road, would be a most injudicious mode of showing 
their resentment, and expose the lives of innocent persons,, 
without affecting the interests of the Company, it is evident 
that similar outrages have taken place, in other parts of the 
country, from much less provocation, And v/hen it is recol- 
lected, that such unjustifiable proceedings are generally trans- 
acted by a few reckless individuals, upon whom the discreet 
and sober have no influence, the people of Suffolk are cer- 
tainly entitled to great credit, that these hasty threats have 
never, to any considerable extent, been carried into execution* 
Had there not been a strong moral influence predominating 
in the community, it is impossible to say what outrages would' 
not have been perpetrated, under such powerfully exciting 
causes. 

It is to be hoped that not only measures may speedily bo 
adopted to allay the present excitement ; but that such a gene- 
rous course may hereafter be pursued, as shall reconcile the 
people to the maintenance of the road. The interests of the 
Company, no less than the benefit of the island, depend upon it, 

SECTION VII. 
Civil and political divisions, with some remarks on the genius 
and character of the people in the several districts- — their 
husbandry, *fyc. 

The greater part of Long Island having been originally set- 
tled, either mediately or immediately from New England, the 

* The actual loss sustained by these fire3, ha3 not been confined to ap» 
Ipropriated property : the brute tribes have been extensive sufferers. Hun- 
dreds of deer, and rabbits, and other game perished in these fires. Many 
of them were seen, while the flames were raging, running to and fro, in 
wild dismay, and frequently rushing headlong into the midst of the fire. 
Others were seen, after the burning subsided, bearing extensive marks of 
Ire on their bodies. The huntsman will have reason to regret these disas- 
ters, for many years to cosae, 



SECT. 7.] THEIR HUSBANDRY, ETC. 61 

towns so formed very naturally sought an alliance with the 
older colonies on the main. And -as they were most conve- 
niently situated, in respect to Hartford and New Haven, 
which were subsequently united under the name of Connecti- 
cut, they voluntarily placed themselves under the government 
of that colony. This alliance extended as far west, as several 
of the towns in what is now called Queen's County, and formed 
a matter of prolonged controversy, between the Dutch govern- 
ment of New Netherlands and Connecticut ; which was not 
definitively settled, till the treaty of Hartford in 1650. By 
that treaty, the west line of Oyster Bay was made the boun- 
dary between the Dutch and English claims — the former to 
hold dominion over all the towns west of that line, and the 
latter to the east. 

After the surrender of the Dutch in 1684, and the establish- 
ment of the government under the Duke of York, who claimed 
dominion over the whole island, the eastern towns manifested 
great reluctance ; and, in some instances, absolutely refused, 
to submit to his authority. But the question being settled by 
commissioners, the Duke's government was extended through- 
out the island. 

Again upon the capture of New York by the Dutch forces 
in 1673, Capt. Anthony Clove, the temporary Governor, re- 
gardless of the treaty of 1650, which had been ratified by the 
government of the Netherlands in 1656, issued a proclama- 
tion, requiring all the towns to send deputies to New York, 
" to make their submission to the States General and the Prince 
of Orange. ' ? Upon their neglect to do so, he despatched com- 
missioners, to require them to take the oath of allegiance to 
the Dutch government ; and in some instances this claim was 
urged by threats of force and arms. Some of the towns were 
constrained to yield, so far as to consent, that the required 
oath should be imposed upon their magistrates only ; while 
certain rights and privileges should be secured to the towns ; 
to which the commissioners consented. But the three eastern 
towns, Southold, Southampton and Easthampton, absolutely 
refused, though threatened by a naval force sent down the 
Sound. In this emergency they sent deputies to Connecticut 
to solicit aid, which was readily promised. Connecticut, in 
conjunction with Massachusetts and Plymouth, having declared 
war against the Dutch, Nov. 26th, 1673, the Governor at New 
York found work enough at home, to put his capital in a pos- 
ture of defence; and, therefore, suspended his operations 
against the eastern towns. 



62 CIVIL AND POLITICAL DIVISIONS ; [tAET 1, 

The restoration of New York to the English, by the treaty 
of peace in 1674, and the arrival of Gov. A?idros, Oct. 31st, 
of that year, brought the whole island again under the Duke's 
government, to which the eastern towns, finally, though with 
evident reluctance, submitted. 

The right of having a voice in the government, by their own 
representatives freely chosen, which had long been insisted on 
by the towns of Long Island, was at length acceded to by the 
Duke of York. Gov. Dongan arrived, Aug. 27th, 1683, with 
express instructions to convene a General Assembly without 
delay. An election in the several towns was immediately or- 
dered, and the representatives were summoned to meet in 
New York, Oct. 17th of that year. Several important acts 
were passed, and among others, one dividing Long Island into 
three counties, under the names, and with essentially the same 
boundaries that they now bear, and which will be hereafter 
given. 

In attempting to ascertain the chronological order of the 
settlement of the several towns, it is important to notice the 
wide difference in the mode, by which the eastern and western 
parts of the island were first occupied. The original settlers 
of the former proceeded, in almost every instance, on the exact 
puritanic principle, by forming companies of persons enter- 
taining similar views and kindred feelings, and carrying with 
them the materials of establishing divine institutions, and mu- 
nicipal regulations, at the very commencement, or, at least, at 
a very early period of their settlement. Some of these actu- 
ally came with their churches already organized, bringing 
their pastor with them ; and the enjoyment of divine ordi- 
nances commenced with the first Sabbath of their history ; 
while others, fully intent upon the same object, made this a 
matter of primary consideration from the very outset. By 
these means, each little settlement, however small the number 
of pioneers, formed the nucleus of a society, homogeneous in 
its character, which, by the adoption of judicious regulations, 
was preserved, in its subsequent increase, from the intrusion 
of undesirable and unwholesome persons. As a further secu- 
rity to the enjoyment of these rights and privileges, they were 
careful, not only to acquire the soil, by a fair and equitable 
purchase of its original proprietors, but to obtain a patent, 
from the English government, or those holding title under it, 
of a sufficient tract of land to constitute a township, which 
might secure them from the inconvenience of too near neigh- 
bours. Some of these patents were of the most liberal tenor, 



8ECT. 7.] THEIR HUSBANDRY, ETC. 63 

and authorised the settlers, " to make purchases of the In- 
dians, and settle thereupon, with as full and free liberty, both 
in church order and civil government, as the plantations in 
Massachusetts enjoyed." Thus the establishment of both 
civil and ecclesiastical government, in the eastern towns, 
commenced with their first settlement. 

But it was not so at the west, particularly in the Dutch 
towns. Here, every man seems to have acted for himself, 
and without any forethought of what might be his relative 
position, with respect to his nearest neighbours. Each looked 
out for a tract of land, according to his taste, and having 
secured a grant for as much as he considered a reasonable 
" bowery" or farm, he set himself down for its improvement ; 
leaving others to act for themselves, as he had done. Hence, 
we find no evidence of any general patent given for any of 
these towns, by the Dutch government till near the close of 
its existence, in the New Netherlands. 

From the proximity of these western towns to New Am- 
sterdam, where a trading stand was made by the Dutch some 
years before the landing of the Pilgrims at Plymouth, it was 
to be expected, that the settlement of the west end of the 
island would precede that of the east. But the desultory 
manner, in which these settlements were commenced, without 
union of counsel, or concert of action, necessarily rendered 
their progress slow, and makes it extremely difficult to ascer- 
tain the true date of their origin. The mere circumstance, 
that one, or even a few scattered families fixed themselves 
down, upon a tract of land, that is now included in the bounds 
of a particular town, is surely not a fact of sufficient conse- 
quence, to fix the date of its origin. For instance, it is well 
ascertained that the first European family that settled on 
Long Island, sat down within the present limits of Brooklyn, 
in 1625 ; and other families followed after them. But there 
is no evidence, that they ever assumed, or received the power 
of municipal jurisdiction, till 1646 : and no distinct ecclesias- 
tical organization was made there, till several years later. So 
also in regard to Bushwick. There is reason to believe that 
some scattered inhabitants planted themselves there, as early 
as 1648, if not before. And yet no measures were taken to 
lay out a regular settlement, or to organize a town, till 1660. 
The fact is, that for a number of years, the scattered inhabit- 
ants of the whole west end were dependent on New Amster- 
dam, for all their civil and ecclesiastical privileges ; and all 
the magistrates, that exercised authority among them, received 



64 CIVIL AND POLITICAL DIVISIONS ; [PAET 1, 

their appointment directly from the Governor. The earliest 
existence of anything like a municipal organization, in any 
of these towns, of which we have evidence, is that of Brook- 
lyn in 1646 ; and the first provision for the regular preach- 
ing of the gospel and the formation of a church, was at Flat- 
bush in 1654. 

There is another notable fact, which confirms the claim of 
the eastern towns, to priority in ecclesiastical affairs, that is 
worthy of distinct recognition. The frst houses of worship or 
churches erected within the entire province of the New Neth- 
erlands, were built on the east end of Long Island. A church 
was erected at Southampton in 1640, and in the same year 
the church at Southold was commenced though not completed 
till the year following. But it is a well authenticated fact, 
that the first Dutch church in the city of New Amsterdam 
was not commenced till 1642, and not completed till 1647. 
The first church on the west end of the island was commenced 
at Flatbush in 1655, in the erection of which the inhabitants 
of Brooklyn, Flatlands, and indeed all the adjacent settlements 
were combined ; and assistance obtained from other parts of 
the province. 

In view of all these facts, it has been deemed proper, in the 
preparation of this work, to date the origin of the several 
towns on Long Island, from the time of the actual association 
of their respective inhabitants into a community, for the exer- 
cise of civil or ecclesiastical government. And it is upon this 
principle that the following list has been prepared. 

Southold, - v - - - - 1640 

Southampton, ----- 

Hempstead, - - - - -1644 

Gravesend, ----- 1645 

Flushing, — first called Vlisshingen, - - - 

Brooklyn, " Breucklen, - - 1646 

Easthampton, " Maidstone, - - 1648 

Gardiner's Island, now a part of Easthampton, was taken 

possession of in 1639. 

Flatbush, first called Midwout, - - - 1651 

Shelter Island, ----- 1652 

Huntington, ----- 1653 

Oyster Bay, ----- 

Flatlands, " Amersfort, - - - 1654 

Brookhaven, ----- 1655 

Newtown, first called Middleburgh, - - 



SECT. 7.] THEIR HUSBANDRY, ETC 65 

Jamaica, first called Rusdorpe, ... 1656 

New Utrecht, - - - - - 1657 

Bushwick, " Boswijck, - - 1660 

Smithtown, " SmitliMd, - - 1663 

Islip, ....-- 1666 

North Hempstead was a part of Hempstead till - 1784 

Riverhead " Southold " - 1792 

Williamsburgh " Bushwick M - 1840 

The inhabitants of Long Island generally are entitled to as 
high a character for patriotism and love of freedom, as any 
part of the state or country. Though in consequence of the 
island being taken possession of by the British army, at an 
early period of the revolution, and held under absolute subjec- 
tion to its close, they had not the opportunity of engaging 
actively in the contest, yet the sacrifices which they made, 
the sufferings they endured, and the assistance they rendered 
to the cause of freedom, whenever an opportunity presented, 
entitle them to a place among the most patriotic citizens. It 
is a fact, that the little county of King's alone, while under the 
constant surveillance of British officers, found means to fur- 
nish more than 8200,000 in specie, to aid their country, in the 
prosecution of their rights. Of this sum, $5,500 were fur- 
nished by a single individual, in whose house a British officer 
had his quarters, and supposed the owner to be favourable to 
the royal cause. This whole amount was loaned, with no 
other security than a scrap of paper, which, in many cases, 
was buried in the ground, to prevent detection. • 

"From 1776 to 1783," says Mr. Wood, " the island was occupied by 
British troops. They traversed it from one end to the other, and were sta- 
tioned at different places during the war. The whole country, within the 
British lines, was subject to martial law ; the administration of justice was 
suspended, the army was a sanctuary for crimes and robbery ; and the 
grossest offences were atoned for by enlistment. — Many of those, who had 
served as officers of the militia, or as members of the town and county 
committees, fled into the American lines for safety. Those, who remained 
at home, were harassed and plundered of their property ; and the inhabit- 
ants generally were subject to the orders, and their property to the dispo- 
sal of British officers. They compelled them to do all kinds of personal 
services, to work at their forts, to go with their teams on foraging parties, 
and to transport their cannon, ammunition, provisions and baggage, from 
place to place, as they changed their quarters ; and to go and come, on 
the order of every petty officer, who had the charge of the most trifling 
business." 

" During the whole war, the inhabitants of the island, especially those 
of Suffolk county, were perpetually exposed to the grossest insult and 
abuse. They had no property of a moveable kind that they could, pro* 



66 CIVIL AND POLITICAL DIVISIONS ; fl'ART 1, 

pcrly speaking, call their own ; they were oftentimes deprived of«the 
stock necessary to the management of their farms, and were deterred from 
endeavouring to produce more than a bare subsistence, by the apprehen- 
sion that a surplus would be wrested from them either by the military au- 
thority of the purveyor, or the ruffian hand of the plunderer. The officers 
seized and occupied the best rooms in the houses of the inhabitants ; they 
compelled them to furnish blankets and fuel for the soldiers, and hay and 
grain for their horses ; they took away their cattle, sheep, hogs and poul- 
try, and seized, without ceremony and without any compensation, what- 
ever they desired to gratify their wants or wishes." The single town of 
Huntington " was compelled, in 1781, to raise £176, by a general tax, as 
a commutation for personal labour, in digging a well in the fort on Lloyd's 
Neck. In 1783, Sir Guy Carlton instituted a board of commissioners, for 
the purpose of adjusting such demands against the British army as had 
not been settled. The accounts of the people of this town alone, for 
property taken from them for the use of the army, which were supported 
by the receipts of British officers, or other evidence, amounted to .£7,249 
9s. 6d — (more than $35,000 ;) and these accounts were not supposed to 
comprise one-fourth part of the property which was taken from them with- 
out compensation." But even this small portion of the demand was never 
paid. The historian adds : " These accounts were sent to New York, to 
be laid before the commissioners, but they sailed for "England without at- 
tending to them." 

" If the other towns on the island suffered half as much in proportion, 
the whole island must have sustained actual losses by the war exceeding 
$500,000, besides innumerable other injuries." 

But these pecuniary losses were not the sorest trials that the inhabitants 
of Long Island endured, under the tyranny of these oppressors. " Besides 
these violations of the rights of person and property, the British officers 
did many acts of barbarity, for which there could be no apology. They 
made garrisons, storehouses, or stables, of the houses of public worship in 
several towns, and particularly of such as belonged to the Presbyterians." 
And to put the crown on this 6 years' course of injustice and barbarity, 
" in the fall of 1782, about the time that the provisional articles of the 
treaty of peace were signed in Europe, Col. Thompson, (since Count Rum- 
ford,) who commanded the troops then stationed at Huntington, without 
any assignable purpose, except that of filling his own pockets, by furnish- 
ing him with a pretended claim on the British treasury, caused a fort to 
be erected; and, without any possible motive, except to gratify a malig- 
nant disposition by vexing the people, he placed it in the centre of the 
public burying ground, in defiance of a remonstrance of the trustees of the 
town, against the sacrilege of disturbing the ashes and destroying the mon- 
uments of the dead." 

But after all this course of opposition and cruelty from a 
barbarous foe, the people of Long Island were destined to ex- 
perience an act of equal injustice from the hand of their own 
country. 

" By an act of the Legislature of the State of New York, passed May 
6th, 1784, a tax of £100,000 was imposed on the southern district, £37,000 
of which was assigned to Long Island, as a compensation to the other 
parts of the State, for not having been in a condition to take an active 
part in the war against the enemy ! ! ! " 



sect. 7.] king's county. 67 

Thus, what had been their misfortune was interpreted a crime ; and 
because they did not emancipate themselves from a mighty army, to whose 
power the whole continental force had abandoned them in the very com- 
mencement of the contest, they must be subjected to a heavy fine : and 
after being pillaged by a remorseless enemy, and tortured by their con- 
stant presence for 6 gloomy years, they must be taxed to repair the losses 
of those who had been subjected only to occasional depredations. 

It is difficult to find, in the whole course of human legislation, a grosser 
"violation of public law and the immutable principles of justice." 

But we shall now proceed to notice the civil divisions of the 
island. 

KING'S COUNTY, 

Comprehends the smallest, but at the present time the most 
populous territory on the island. It occupies the western ex- 
tremity. The boundary line commences at the mouth of 
Newtown Creek, about one mile south of the southern end of 
Manning's, now called BlackwelVs Island, in the strait com- 
monly called the East River. Pursuing the course of this 
creek about 2 miles, it proceeds in a straight line south-east- 
erly, till it reaches the hills, a little to the north of East New 
York ; where it turns nearly at a right angle, and taking the 
range of the highlands, runs north-easterly about a mile and a 
half ; where, again changing to the south-east, it proceeds in 
a straight line to the head of Spring Creek, a serpentine 
stream about 2 miles south of the Union Race Course, which 
then becomes the boundary, till it empties into Jamaica Bay. 
A part of that bay, the Atlantic Ocean, New York Bay and 
Harbour, and the East River to Newtown Creek, complete 
the circuit of this county. It is but 12 miles in length from 
north to south, and 9 miles in its widest part, containing only 
76 square miles, which is much less than the area of several 
single towns in the other counties. 

By the U. S. census of 1840, this county contained 47,613 
inhabitants. By the recent State census, its number is 
78,691, which gives 1,035 individuals to the square mile, or 
nearly 2 to the acre. 

The face of this county is considerably broken with hills, 
bays and marshes ; but in general the soil is good, and in a 
high state of cultivation. The southern parts, bordering on 
the sea, are level and inclining to sand ; while the residue is a 
stiff, strong soil, and in general much incumbered with stone, 
both lying on the surface and imbedded in the ground. This, 
however, instead of being a real incumbrance, is becoming 
more and more valuable for fencing and building material, 



68 



CIVIL AND POLITICAL DIVISIONS ; [PART 1, 



which, from the scarcity of timber on this part of the island, 
has been in constant demand. 

It may be proper to make a remark here, which will apply 
to the whole island, that while some parts of it are well sup- 
plied with stone, and others are as remarkably destitute, there 
are no quarries or stone in situ throughout its entire extent, 
except at the narrow strait called Hurl-gate. Though there 
are some rocks of very large dimensions, they all are, in the 
language of geology, foreigners to the soil. 

In regard to the moral character of the people of this county, 
it is sufficient to say here, that their religious views and feelings 
took their complexion from the Dutch and French Protestants, 
who together composed the first settlers, and became entirely 
amalgamated in all their social, civil, and ecclesiastical re- 
lations. 

This county now comprehends seven towns (originally only 
six, one having been recently divided,) the names of which, 
together with their greatest length and breadth, area in square 
miles, and present population, are presented at a single view 
in the following schedule : 



Names. 


Greatest 


Greatest 


Area in 


Pop. in 


Pop. in 


Length. 


Breadth. 


sq. miles. 


1840. 


1845. 


Bushwick, 


5 


n 


6^ 


1,295 


1,857 


Williamsburgh, 






n 


u 


X l 


5,094 


11,338 


Brooklyn, 






6i 


u 


14J 


36,233 


59,574 


Flatbusk, 






n 


4k 


16| 


2,099 


2,225 


Flatlands, 






5 


Bi 


14 


810 


936 


New Utrecht, 






3| 


3 


8* 


1,283 


1,863 


Gravesend, 






4 


4 


15 


799 


898 



76 



47,613 78,691 
47,613 



Increase in 5 years, 



31,078 



QUEEN'S COUNTY 

Extends from the eastern boundary of King's, about 25 
miles eastward, including the whole breadth of the Island. 
Its eastern boundary is formed in part by that large arm of the 
Sound called Oysterbay, running up into the land, and form- 
ing Cold Spring Harbour. From the head of tide water, it 
follows the general course, and nearly the bed of a stream 
called Cold Spring, about a mile and a half in a south-easterly 
direction ; and then due south across the island, to the Great 
South Bay and Ocean. Lloyd's Neck, though lying on the east 
of Oysterbay, and connected with the adjoining county by a 



sect. 7.] queen's county. 69 

sand beach, which is always passable, is attached to this coun- 
ty, and forms a part of the town of Oysterbay. This unna- 
tural and inconvenient arrangement was made, at the desire 
of one of its former proprietors about the year 1734. 

The greatest length of this county, from the East River 
near BlackwelPs island, to the eastern boundary is about 27 
miles ; and its greatest breadth, not far from 18 miles : and 
is estimated to contain 395^ square miles. Its population by 
the census of 1840, is 30,324— by that of 1845, 31,849, 
which gives about 80§ to the square mile, or one to 8 acres. 

Much of the land of this county is naturally good, and has 
been greatly improved by good husbandry. Its contiguity to 
the city, and its numerous bays and harbours, which are them- 
selves sources of many fertilizing materials, afford peculiar 
facilities for procuring manures, of which the sagacious inhab- 
itants have long been in the habit of availing themselves. 
And their fields present to the eye of the traveller as their 
productions do to the owners, evidence of the wisdom and 
economy of the practice. 

The great Hempstead Plain, already described, lies entirely 
within this county. 

The people of this part of the island, are of a more mixed 
character, both in regard to their origin and religious views, 
than either of the other counties. In King's, till within a few 
years, the Dutch character had a decided and obvious prepon- 
derance, which is still the case in some towns. This was mani- 
fest to the eye of the transient observer, in the manners and 
habits of the people, and even in the form and style of their 
buildings. A Dutch house, or a Dutch barn has been, from time 
immemorial, a term that conveyed as definite an idea to the 
mind, as the most detailed description could have given. And 
till after the commencement of the present century, a Dutch 
church was invariably conceived to bear a strong resemblance 
to a Light-house, only occupying more ground at its base, and 
not extending to so great a height. And so peculiarly appro- 
priate was this form of church building, in the public esti- 
mation, that other denominations sometimes erected their 
houses of worship on the same plan. 

On the other hand, the people of Suffolk County, being al- 
most exclusively of English or New England origin, present 
to the present day, the constant evidence of yankee predilec- 
tion. Overlooking the physical features of the country, the 
traveller cannot divest his mind of the idea, that he is in the 
midst of a New England population, living in New England 



70 CIVIL AND POLITICAL DIVISIONS; [pAET 1, 

habitations. And had he entered almost any one of their 
churches, some 30 years ago, before " the spirit of improve- 
ment" swept over the land, he would have recognised, in the 
vast pulpit, sufficiently large to hold a dozen ministers, with 
its deacon's seat beneath, and a sounding board of corres- 
ponding size above, which always attracted the attention of 
children more than the preacher, and filled them with constant 
apprehension, that it might fall and crush the man of God, in 
the midst of his devotions ; in the large square pews too, 
which obliged one half the congregation (and these were gene- 
rally the children) to sit with their backs to the minister, 
and thus, in spite of themselves, and all their efforts, to be- 
come listless and sleepy hearers ;• in all these and many other 
particulars, the observer, if from New England, would recog- 
nise the fac simile of his native church. 

But in Queen's County there is nothing of this unique, 
homologous character, either in the manners of the people, 
the style of their buildings, or the moral aspect of society. 
Here Yankees and Dutchmen, presbyterians and quakers, men 
of every religion and no religion, have for almost two centu- 
ries been mingled together, with all their various affinities and 
repulsions ; and while the effervescence has been constantly 
going on, the time is yet future, if it ever is to come, when 
it is to subside into one homogeneous mass. 

It may therefore be readily inferred from the facts of the 
case, that there is, and always has been, a greater ersity 
of religious views, and consequently of the moral haoits of 
the people of this county, with far less of fellow-feeling and 
assimilated manners, than in any other district of the island. 
Except in a few thickly settled spots, houses of religious wor- 
ship, till of late years, have been much fewer in number, and 
attended by a less proportion of the population, than in the 
other counties ; while in many towns, fishing and hunting, 
travelling and visiting, and even ordinary secular labour, are 
indulged in, by multitudes, on the Sabbath day. Its proximity 
to the city has doubtless increased these evils, if it has not 
been their origin : but it is to be apprehended, that too many 
of the inhabitants are voluntary panders to the votaries of 
pleasure from the great metropolis. 

And here it is proper to notice one of the principal means 

* The writer has always heen of the opinion that the devil had as much 
of a hand in the invention of sounding boards and square pews, as he 
had in the Salem witchcraft : and that the scheme has been vastly more 
successful, in its pernicious influences, nn the rising generation. 



sect. 7.] queen's county. 71 

of demoralization, with which this county, as well as the ad- 
jacent parts have been cursed for the space of 180 years. 
Here has been the permanent arena of " the sports of the 
turf," as they are denominated in the jockey dialect, since the 
year following the surrender of New- York to the government 
of Britain. 

This regular system of horse-racing was established in 1665 
by Gov. Nicoll. Four years afterwards (1669) his successor 
Gov. Lovelace issued a proclamation, appointing " trials of 
speed," to take place in the month of May annually ; and or- 
dering the justices of Hempstead to receive subscriptions (!) 
for " a crown of silver, or the value thereof in good wheat," 
to be the reward of the winner. The ostensible argument 
for this procedure was " for the purpose of improving and en- 
couraging a good treed of horses ;" an argument that is most ri- 
diculously retained in our statute book, to the present day. 
Every man of reflection knows, that from the first settlement 
of this country, the breed of race-horses is the last species of 
the animal, that the exigencies of the people have demanded. 
In days gone by, those capable of enduring hardship, and of 
easy support, have been sought after ; while extraordinary 
speed, b*s been only a secondary consideration, and of limited 
deman . a the occupations of life. But now, when the iron 
horse, which travels untired with the speed of a hurricane, 
has entirely superseded the use of the fleetest steeds, it is to 
be hoped, that when the current "15 years" shall have expir- 
ed, the Act, with its baseless reason, will cease to disgrace the 
statute book of the State, whose laws forbid every species of 
gambling. 

The Hempstead Plain, or its vicinity, has been the perma- 
nent theatre of these semi-annual enactments, from their com- 
mencement in 1665. The "Newmarket Course," called al- 
so " Salisbury Plain" was in the southwest corner of North 
Hempstead, 5 miles east of Jamaica ; and was thus occupied 
more than 150 years. This was exchanged, some 20 years ago, 
for the " Union Course," 3 miles west of Jamaica, a circle of a 
mile's circumference, completely palisadoed, for this exclusive 
purpose. And here are regularly enacted, twice a year, scenes, 
which no imagination, however fertile, can depict, without 
the aid of ocular demonstration. It has been stated, and the 
statement stands uncontradicted, that at a single course of 
races, 50,000 persons attended, and $200,000 were lost and 
won ; and that during the 5 days that the " sports" continued, 
the toll of the Fulton Ferry Company averaged $ 1000 n day ; 



72 



CIVIL AND POLITICAL DIVISIONS ; [PART 1, 



and it was supposed, that the other avenues from the city re- 
alised an equal sum. But the gambling, expense and loss of 
time attending these scenes of dissipation, form only a part 
of the evils with which they are connected. The drinking — 
the swearing — the licentiousness — the contentions and other 
nameless crimes, which are here periodically committed, with 
the countenance of law, are enough to sicken the soul of every 
man that fears God and is disposed to reverence his com- 
mands ; and must induce him to wish most devoutly for the 
time to come, and that speedily, when this crying abomination, 
with all its accompaniments shall be banished, from this once 
sacred soil of puritans and huguenots. 

There is no reason to doubt that the passion for horse racing, 
so long and so assiduously cultivated, has had a powerful in- 
fluence in stamping the character of the people of this coun- 
ty, with traits so diverse from either of those with which it 
stands in juxta-position. 

Queen's County is divided into six towns ; Hempstead hav- 
ing been originally one, is now divided by a line running east 
and west, through the great Plain, nearly coincident with the 
site of the L. I. Rail Road. The following schedule exhibits 
the same statistical particulars, previously given, of the county 
of King's. 



Names. 


Greatest 


Area in 


Population in 


Length, 


Breadth, 


sq. miles 


1840 | 1845 


Newtown, 


7 


6 


26i 


5,054 


5,521 


Flushing, 


7i 


5 


28* 


4,124 


3,913 


Jamaica, 


n 


7 


47 


3,781 


3,883 


Hempstead, 
North Hempstead, 


13 


10 


114 


7,609 


8,269 


9 


8 


53 


3,891 


3,897 


Oysterbay, 


18 


10 


127 


5,865 


6,361 


. 






395£ 


30,324 i 












30,324 



Increase in 5 years 1525 



SUFFOLK COUNTY, 

Embraces the whole of the remaining part of Long Island 
(proper,) with its adjacent islands. Its greatest length is about 
90 miles, and its greatest breadth from the extremity of Ea- 
ton's Neck on the Sound, to the margin of the Great South 
Bay, 20 miles. Its medium breadth is estimated at 10 or 11 
miles. From the general description of the Island previously 



SEOT. 7.] SUFFOLK COUNTY. 73 

given, it will be borne in mind, that the Eastern part is so cut 
up by the indentation of bays, harbours, and coves, that, 
through half the length of the county, it is divided into two 
separate branches, which are from 6 or 8, down to 1 mile wide. 

The whole county contains 976 square miles ; and its popu- 
lation in 1840, was 32,469 ; in 1845, 34,579 ; which is 36 to 
the mile, or 18 to the acre. 

Much of the land as already described is a barren waste. 
In travelling through it, the stranger finds it difficult to ima- 
gine, how even the wandering deer can find sustenance ; 
much more, how human beings can procure an adequate sup- 
port. And yet it is astonishing to see, in a propitious season, 
how large crops are raised from these sterile plains. Good 
Indian corn, may frequently be seen growing in the fine white 
sea-sand, which has evidently been drifted by the waves and 
the winds to the distance of miles. This, slightly mingled with 
sea-mud and vegetable mould, conveyed by the same agency, 
forms a substratum, if not a soil, in which, in a wet season, 
(for, on Long Island, water is pre-eminently a main supporter 
of vegetation,) corn and other grain will grow with astonishig 
rapidity and luxuriance. 

But while these remarks apply, with strict propriety, to 
large portions of this county ; there are extensive tracts of ex- 
cellent land, which amply repay the labor of cultivation. This 
is true, not only of the numerous necks of land which jut out 
into the surrounding waters, and the margins of the number- 
less bays, coves and harbours, but also of large bodies of land 
situated in almost every part of the island. But the writer 
would gladly whisper in the ear of many large land-holders, in 
this his native county, if they could be persuaded to believe it, 
that there is a great deal more profit in cultivating one acre of 
land well, than ten acres badly. The fact is, many on Long 
Island, as in other parts of the country, own and work too much 
land. The writer has in his mind's eye, a farm of nearly a 
thousand acres, which, half a century ago, was owned and cul- 
tivated, under the direction of a single individual, who was 
called a great farmer. But when he had ruined himself by the 
operation, and had surrendered the whole to pay his debts, (as 
honest, but unfortunate men were in the habit of doing in old 
times,) it was cut up and sold to six or eight persons, who have 
since supported as many families from its productions. And if 
it could undergo another, and even another subdivision, it 
might afford sustenance to double or quadruple the present 
number ; besides materially improving the aspect of the town, 

4 



74 CIVIL AXI? POLITICAL DIVISIONS; [PART 2, 

in which it is situated. The same remarks apply to scores of 
farms in this county, which, in their present condition, are to 
their owners, what self-righteousness is to the sinner, " the 
more they have, the worse they are oif." We have seen that 
in this county, there is an average of 18 acres to every inha- 
bitant, while there is many an acre in King's County, that 
furnishes support to a whole family. And though the proxi- 
mity of a great market makes a vast difference in the value of 
vegetable productions, the disparity in the two cases would be 
exceedingly reduced, by applying more manure and more 
labor to less ground. There is no knowing, till the experiment 
is fairly made, how much an acre of land may be made to pro- 
duce, by good husbandry. 

But it is not intended by these remarks, to convey the idea 
that all the farmers of old Suffolk, are regardless of the im- 
provements made in agriculture ; or, that they are in the habit 
of taxing their fields, without furnishing them the means of an- 
swering the demand. More or less attention has long been 
paid, to the importance of manuring, and they would be sin- 
gularly culpable if this were not the case, since Nature has 
furnished them with peculiar facilities for the accomplishment 
of the work. The waters, with which they are surrounded, 
not only furnish a large supply of provisions for immediate 
use, but they are the unfailing sources of enriching the land. 
The sea-iceed, which is cast up in immense quantities on the 
whole extent of shore, and various other productions of the 
bays and marshes, are daily yielding vast supplies of fertilizing 
materials. 

But more than all, the countless multitudes of one peculiar 
species of fish, which crowd the bays, and press upon the 
ocean's shore, of which millions are annually taken, for the 
sole purpose of manure, are the principal source of fertility to 
the land. In several of the eastern towns, this business is as re- 
gularly pursued, during a part of the summer, as ploughing and 
sowing, or mowing and reaping, in their appropriate seasons. 
For this purpose, the farmers of a neighbourhood form them- 
selves into a company, sufficiently large to afford a relief of 
hands, every week, and having provided themselves with a 
large seine, boats, a fish-house on the shore, and every neces- 
sary convenience, the party on duty, take up their residence 
on the water-side ; and it is impossible to convey to a stranger's 
mind, the immense product of a week's labour. A single haul 
of a seine has been calculated at 1,000,000 of fish. 

These fish are called by various names, as skip-hog, moss- 



SECT. 7.] 8UFF0LK COUNTY. 75 

honker, shad, and bony fish; the last of which is most descrip- 
tive. 1 hough of a good flavour, and generally very fat, thev 
nre so perfectly fiHed with fine bones, that it Is hazardous to 
eat a particle of them. It would seem as if the God of nature 
had formed and annually sent them in such immense quanti- 
ties to these shores, for the sole purpose of fertilizing the land 
By this means alone, the value of much of the land on the east 
end of the island has been doubled ; and by the same means 
its presen value is maintained. For many years, Suffolk 
county did not raise sufficient grain for its domestic supply" 
* hile of late it has exported a large annual surplus. It may 
be added here, that m taking these fish, other kinds of an ex- 
cellent quality for the table, are caught in sufficient quanti- 
ties to supply the fishermen and the whole vicinity, with fresh 
fish every day ; while those which are not wanted for food are 

TlTtl T™; 1 rece P tac,e - So «»*. on the whole, 

though this country, from the nature of the land, may never 
be able to sustain a population proportioned to its superficial 
extent, m comparison with other portions of the state, it is 
really questionable whether there is any part of the world in 
which the means of supporting life, can be more readily ob- 
ZZ V ^ on ftoing is believed to be certain, that in no 
pait ot this republican country is there so great an equality, 
and such a strong sympathy and perfect fellow-feeling, amonj 
the whole mass of population, as in Suffolk county, especially 
in the eastern towns. l J 

The following extract from Vol. I. of the « Transactions of 
the Society instituted in the State of New York for the pro- 
mo ion of Agriculture, Arts and Manufactures, in Feb. 1791 
will give some idea of the fertilizing effects, as well as the vast 
quantities of these fish which were taken, even at that early 

rela ^^79^^ * *"* "*"»»** *•*■ 

i& " Notwithstanding the great improvements which have been 
^ made in husbandry, in different parts of Europe and America, 
it is far from being ascertained what is the "largest quantity 
of produce, which may be raised from a given quantity of land 
by manure. It will no doubt be much more than from the 
most fertile land m its natural state. I have heard of no 
instance of new land producing more wheat than 42 bushels 
to the acre. In Suffolk County, some years ago, at Hun- 
^ tington by manure, 52 bushels of wheat were raised by the 
acre. Since the practice in that county of manuring land by 



76 CIVIL AND POLITICAL DIVISIONS ; [PART 1, 

" fish has been in use, between 40 and 50 bushels of wheat 
" from one acre is not an uncommon crop. And by a late 
'« accidental experiment, it appears, that the product of grain 
" from an acre will be in proportion to the quantity of this 
" manure, and so far as to exceed any production we have 
" heard of, in any part of the world. A farmer in the town 
"of Itiverhead in Suffolk Co., Mr. Downs, having four thou- 
M sand fish called Mossbonkers, or Menhaden, strewed them 
"about the first of June on 20 rods of ground, being a poor, 
" Gravelly, dry soil, and which without manure would not pay 
" for the tillage. These fish were ploughed under a shallow 
"furrow; at the time of sowing, about the last of September, 
«' the ground was plowed up again, and a little deeper ; by 
" harrowing, the putrified fish were well mixed with the earth, 
" and the ground sown with rye at the rate of one bushel to 
*' the acre. The ground being well covered in the fall, the 
" rye was not injured in the winter ; in the spring the growth 
" was remarkably rapid and luxuriant till it was about nine 
" inches high, when his neighbour's sheep broke into the inclo- 
" sure and eat it all off close to the ground. The fence was 
" mended and the rye grew again, and much thicker than be- 
" fore, till it got about six inches high, when the same sheep 
" broke in again, and the second time eat it close to the ground. 
" It was then supposed the crop would be lost, but it grew 
"again with additional thickness and great rapidity; it all 
" stood well, the ears were very long and full, and Mr. Downs 
"assured me he had 16 bushels of rye from this 20 rods of 
" ground. This production was so extraordinary, that although 
" I could have no reason to doubt the assertion of Mr. Downs, 
" I conversed with some of his neighbours on the subject, who 
"had seen the rye growing at different times and just before 
" harvest — they made no doubt of the fact, and observed, the 
" heads and thickness of the rye far exceeded any thing they 
" had seen or could have imagined. This piece of land was 
"manured at the rate of 32,000 fish per acre, which would 
" cost, including the carting from the shore where they were 
a taken, 10 shillings per thousand, which would be £\Q. The 
" product would be 128 bushels, which at that time was worth 
"8s. per bushel, which is £51 4s. 0d. If we allow 3 dollars 
" for the ploughing, gathering and threshing the grain per acre 
" with the straw, which will be fully adequate to the labour, 
" there will remain 85 dollars clear of expense on the neat 
" proceeds of one acre of rye thus manured and productive. 
" And Mr. Downs' profits on the 20 rods of rye were £4 5s. Od. 



SECT. 7.] SUFFOLK COUIsTr. 77 

" Mr. Downs as well as his neighbours were of opinion, that 
" unless the accidents of the sheep eating off the rye twice had 
" happened, the whole would have been lost by reason of its 
" falling or lodging. If this opinion be right, by this experi- 
" ment we are taught the necessity of cutting or feeding off 
" the grain on lands highly manured, in order to preserve the 
" crop. Perhaps the thicker such land is sown, the less neces- 
" sity there will be for cutting or feeding, as there will be more 
44 original strong stalks. Most lands in this country of the 
" same quality will bring more bushels of wheat than rye — 
44 and I trust by improvements on this experiment which was 
*' merely accidental, we may soon be informed of a much larger 
" quantity of wheat being raised on an acre, than hitherto has 
*' been raised in Europe or America. 

** It was expected, that the taking of these fish in such large 
" quantities on the sea coast for manure, would in a few years 
44 destroy them ; but hitherto they have increased. This year 
*' I saw 250,000 taken at one draught, which must have been 
" much more than 100 tons. One seine near me caught more 
" than one million the last season, which season lasts about 
" one month. Various are the modes of manuring land by 
44 fish. Those that are taken early in the season are by some 
44 carted on the land, spread lightly, and ploughed under the fur- 
" row, for raising Indian corn ; this corn is taken off in the 
'* fall, and the land ploughed and sowed for wheat. By this 
14 mode they have two good crops by manuring once." 

The Eastern towns on Long Island were, for the most part, 
originally settled on a different basis from most of the other 
colonies of this country. They had no royal charter or pro- 
prietary patent as the foundation of civil government. Having 
purchased their lands of the original proprietors of the soil, and 
secured a corresponding grant from the patentee, without any 
restrictions to their civil rights, they found themselves abso- 
lutely in a state of nature, possessing all the personal rights 
and privileges which the God of nature gave them, but with- 
out the semblance of authority one over another. From the 
necessity of the case they were thrown back upon the source 
of all legitimate authority, the sovereign people ; and entered 
into a social compact, in which every man had an equal voice 
and equal authority. On this platform, they founded a pure 
democracy ; and for several years each town maintained a 
perfectly independent government ; making their own laws 
in public town meeting, and executing them by magistrates of 



78 CIVIL AND POLITICAL DIVISIONS; [PART 1, 

their own appointment. And it is worthy of remark, that the 
invaluable privilege of trial by jury was at once introduced, 
though with this peculiarity, that a majority was sufficient to 
render a verdict. And when, afterwards, one town after an- 
other, deemed it expedient to unite themselves with the larger 
colonies of New-England, it was not because they felt them- 
selves incapable of managing their own internal affairs ; but 
solely for defence from foreign aggression. And the nature of 
the union was rather that of an alliance, than of subjection. 

Being thus trained up in the possession and exercise of all 
their natural rights and privileges, they exhibited through the 
whole course of their colonial existence, the most unyielding 
determination to maintain these sacred immunities. And in 
this they generally agreed to a man. It is a fact, though lit- 
tle known, but worthy of being handed down to posterity, that 
the declaration of rights, and a solemn pledge not to submit to 
British taxation, proposed in a meeting in the city of New 
York, April 29th, 1775, and distributed for signatures in every 
town in the province, was signed, by the 6th of July of that 
year, by every man capable of bearing arms in the town of 
Easthampton, to the number of 280 individuals. This is 
surely a much more notable fact than that since the establish- 
ment of the present government, the elections of that town 
have often been returned without a dissenting vote ; and the 
former gives a ready explanation of the latter. A similar 
unanimity, though not as entire, characterized the most of 
the towns of this county during " the times that tried men's 
souls." 

There is another fact, however great the contrast with the 
present state of things, which gives this and the adjoining 
counties a consequence that has long since been lost sight of. 
There was a period, and that of some considerable duration, 
when Long Island constituted the great body of the province 
of New York. It was the first occupied by actual immi- 
grants for the purpose of a permanent settlement and agricul- 
tural pursuits. Here the first churches were organized and 
the first towns formed. And in the easternmost town, within 
less than twenty miles of Montauk Point, and at Flatbush, 
near the western extremity, the first incorporated academies in 
the great state of New York were erected and put in success- 
ful operation. 

The first Assembly of Deputies that the representative of 
royal power condescended to convoke for consultation, the year 
after the surrender of the province to British arms, was held 



SECT. 7.] SUFFOLK COUNTY. 79 

at Hempstead, March 1st, 1665, and (with the exception of 
two,) was composed entirely of representatives from the seve- 
ral towns of the island. 

The first legislative Assembly convened in 1683, was not 
only procured through the remonstrances and demands of 
Long Island, more than any other part of the colony, but was 
in a great measure made up of its representatives. The first 
speaker of that body was either then or afterwards a resident 
of the island, and the same office was afterwards held by one 
of its representatives 16 out of 21 years. Though now regard- 
ed as the mere "fag-end" Long Island was once both the body 
and soul of the Province of New- York. Nor has she deteriorated 
in her intrinsic worth, though she has been completely lost sight 
of, and almost cast into oblivion, in the extending glory of a 
great commonwealth, which has arrogated to itself the proud 
title of the " Empire State." 

But patriotic views and love of rational liberty do not con- 
stitute the chi glory of old Suffolk. It is her primitive pu- 
Q-itanism which, it is believed, has been illustrated here, in 
piety toward? God, and love to men, for two hundred years, 
and now exists, in more of its original purity, than can be 
found on any spot of equal extent, on the American conti- 
nent Let it be proclaimed in trumpet-tongued accents, that 
here, no man was ever persecuted and disfranchised for his re- 
ligious opinions, nor man or woman executed for heresy or 
witchcraft. On the contrary, from the first organization of 
their civii institutions, they ordained the widest toleration of 
religious opinions, so long as it was not exercised for the se- 
duction of others and the injury of the community ; and that 
too, while as yet such an article had not been enacted, if it 
had been conceived, on the continent of America. 

From the natural reserve of a people brought up in seclu- 
sion from the rest of the world, which still, in a measure, dis- 
tinguishes them, these traits of character may not be readily 
recognised by the casual observer. But if the present gene- 
ration have not greatly degenerated from the sentiments and 
practices of their immediate predecessors, among whom the 
writer spent some of the happiest years of his early life, a re- 
sidence of a few months or even weeks among these primitive 
people on the east end, will afford complete conviction of the 
correctness of these remarks. 

Suffolk County contains nine towns, of which the following 
statistical view is given :— 



SO 



LITERARY CHARACTEB* 



[part J, 



Names. 



Southold 

Shelter Island 

Easthampton 

Southampton 

Riverhead 

Brookhaven 

Smithtown 

Islip 

Huntingtorj 



Greatest 


Greatest 


Area in 


Population 


length. 


breadth. 


sq. miles. 


in 1840. 


40 


4 


82 


3,907 


6 


4 


3H 


379 


22 


8 


110i 


2.076 


25 


8 


143 


6,205 


14 


6 


&H 


2,449 


22 


16 


238^ 


7,050 


81 


8 


59 


1,932 


18 


8i 


1124 


1,909 


20 


9 


144£ 


6,562 



976 



32,469 



Increase in 5 years, 



Population 
in 1845. 



4,191 
446 
2,155 
7,212 
2,373 
7,461 
1,897 
2,098 
6,74G 

34,579 
32,469 

2,110 



SECTION VIII. 
Literary Character. 

On this topic, taken in its widest sense, it must be confessed 
at the outset, that the people of Long Island have not much to> 
boast of. And yet, upon a candid investigation of the whole 
ground, it will appear, that they are not entirely destitute of all 
claims. There is abundant evidence on record, that the first 
settlers of all these towns, from the east to the west, considered 
the establishment of schools, as second in importance to no- 
thing but the institutions of the Gospel \ and many of them 
were as careful to bring their schoolmasters as their minis- 
ters with them. Indeed, their schools were regarded as nur- 
series for the church, and learning, as the handmaid of reli- 
gion. Then the Bible, instead of being excluded from the 
school, or read only at its opening, was a principal reading- 
book, and the writer speaks advisedly when he asserts, that in 
the use of that blessed volume, greater proficiency was made 
in the mere art of reading, and the correct orthography of the 
English language, than is now usually obtained in the use of 
all the " improved books" for reading, with which the country 
is inundated. 

But the schools established by the forefathers of the island* 
were not designed for the acquisition of mere secular know- 
ledge — they were made the vehicles of moral and religious in- 
struction. The school was literally a school of morals, where 
children were taught to understand and practise the relative 
duties of life — to respect and observe the institutions of reli- 
gion, and where every immorality was visited with a suitable 



SECT. 8.] LITERARY CHARACTER. §1 

recompense. And such the schools of Long Island continued 
to be, till within the memory of many now living. The wri- 
ter can well recollect, that, in the first school he ever attend- 
ed, the recitation of the Catechism was as regular an exercise 
on Saturday, as the preaching of the Gospel, in the Church, 
on the succeeding day. Moreover, the schoolmaster was re- 
garded as occupying a place second only to the minister, and 
a sort of helper in his sacred work. Hence he was generally 
the chorister of the congregation, and in the absence of the 
minister, he was depended on to read a sermon, for the instruc- 
tion of the people. In the Dutch towns, these and various 
other duties were generally stipulated, in their contracts with 
their teachers. 

The following regulations adopted at an early period, and 
for a long time maintained in the town of Flatbush, may be 
regarded as a curiosity, and will serve as an illustration. 

44 When the school begins, one of the children shall read the morning 
prayer, as it stands in the catechism, and close with the prayer before din- 
ner ; in the afternoon, it shall begin with the prayer after dinner, and end 
with the evening prayer. The evening school shall begin with the Lord's 
prayer, and close by singing a psalm. 

" He (the schoolmaster) shall instruct the children on every Wednesday 
and Saturday, in the common prayers, and the questions and answers in 
the catechism, to enable them to repeat them the better on Sunday, before 
the afternoon service, or on Monday, when they shall be catechised before 
the congregation. Upon all such occasions, the school-master shall be 
present, and shall require the children to be friendly in their appearance 
and encourage them to answer freely and distinctly. 

In the Church service, " Before the sermon is commenced, he shall 
read a chapter out of the Holy Scriptures — the ten commandments, and 
the twelve articles of our faith, and then take the lead in singing. In the 
afternoon, he shall read a short chapter or one of the Psalms of David, &c. 

" When the minister shall preach at Brooklyn or New Utrecht, he shall 
be required to read twice before the congregation, from the book com- 
monly used for that purpose. In the afternoon, he shall also read a ser- 
mon, catechise the children, &c. 

" For the administration of holy baptism, he shall provide a basin with 
water, for which he shail be entitled to receive from the parents, or wit- 
nesses, 12 stivers. He shall, at the expense of the church, provide bread 
and wine for the celebration of the Holy Supper. 

'* He shall give the funeral invitations, «fcc, &c, for which service he 
shall receive for a person of 15 years and upwards, 12 guilders, and for 
one under that age, 8 guilders." 

Hence, it appears that the schoolmaster was a very import- 
ant personage in the parish. 

But, it may be asked, what has all this to do with the lite- 
rary character of Long Island. The answer, if nothing more, 
it biiows that the persons employed to teach their children, 

4* 



82 LITERARY CHARACTER. [PART 1, 

must have been men of respectable character, and of attain, 
ments beyond the mere ability " to spell, read, write, and cy- 
pher." Our forefathers never believed, as many of their pos- 
terity believe, that any one who can spell and read is capable 
of teaching children their A, B, C. They were doubtless of 
the opinion, that if scholars ever need an accomplished teacher, 
it is when they take the first step in a course of education, or 
when they first enter upon the elements of a new science. 
And any man who has spent as much time as the writer has, 
in endeavouring to make scholars unlearn, or forget what they 
have already learned, will pronounce the opinion correct. If 
ever you must have an indifferent teacher for your children, 
let it be after they have got a fair start, and have acquired 
" the hang of the tools' 5 for themselves ; and then they stand 
in less need of his imperfect assistance, and will be less likely 
to be led astray by his deficiencies. 

Another circumstance, which greatly enhanced the value 
of their schools, was the permanency of their teachers. By 
proposing an adequate salary, which, in many cases, was but 
little short of that of the minister, they were not only able to 
secure those that were capable, but made it an object for them 
to continue in the station. Hence, we find in several instan- 
ces, that a teacher remained in the same school more than 20 
years. Thus, the employment of men of established charac- 
ter and respectable attainments laid the foundation of a good 
common school education ; and as their schools were long 
maintained by a tax on property, the blessings of instruction 
were extended equally to all. The whole community was 
educated, and the privilege was highly esteemed and diligently 
improved. 

In regard to the acquisition of an education beyond what 
could be attained in the common school, it must be confessed, 
that many towns on the Island have been greatly deficient : 
and it should, at the same time be recollected, that peculiar 
obstacles precluded them from the privileges enjoyed in other 
parts of the country. Their insular situation necessarily cut 
them off' from that intercourse with learned men, and all the 
other stimulants to acquire knowledge, which have such a 
powerful influence on individuals and the community. The 
same cause rendered it equally difficult to send their sons to 
the favoured seats of science on the main, or to bring the 
means of instruction, in the higher departments of literature 
and science, within their reach at home. And yet, with all 
these disadvantages, the people of the island have shown a 



SECT. LITERARY CHARACTER. 83 

commendable zeal in the liberal education of their sons ; and 
although a large portion of them, when thus educated have 
from necessity or choice, left their native shores, to shine as 
lights in other parts of our country, the credit should not be lost, 
with the loss of their influence, to the spot that gave them 
birth. Where will you find a more striking instance of the 
estimated value of a liberal education, than in the second mi- 
nister of Easthampton, three of whose sons Were graduates of 
Cambridge University, while as yet there was no other in the 
land ? And had we been able to obtain, as we first intended, 
a catalogue of educated men, in the several towns, we should 
find that the Island does not fall so far short, as many suppose, 
of other parts of the State. 

Although Long Island has never yet aspired to be the seat 
of a University, nor could she reasonably expect, by her own 
exclusive patronage, to sustain such an institution, yet the sa- 
lubrity of her climate, both moral and physical, would seem to 
render almost any part of her sequestered shores, a far more 
suitable and alluring site for a literary establishment, than the 
ceaseless din, and the accumulated temptations of a great city. 
But while she has never laid claim to so high a distinction, 
she was among the first in the empire state to found semina- 
ries of a higher grade than the primary schools. 

Clinton Academy, at Easthampton, is not only the oldest 
Academy on Long Island, but it is the first institution of the 
kind incorporated by the Regents of the University of the 
state of New- York. It was erected in 1784, the very year 
after the return of peace ; and its charter is dated November 
17th, 17S7. 

Erasmus Hall, at Flatbush, was erected in 1786 and its 
charter bears even date with that of Easthampton. 

Union Hall, at Jamaica, was erected in 1791, and its 
charter was given March 9th, 1792. It was the sixth institu- 
tion chartered in the state. 

While these three are the only academic institutions on the 
island, that availed themselves, at any early period, of the 
patronage of the Regents, other towns were not regardless of 
the importance of such seminaries. Many others have been 
erected, which from a mistaken policy have been held under 
the exclusive control of the community, or association, by 
which they were founded ; and have generally been governed 
by Trustees annually elected. 

Huntington Academy was built in 1704, and was opened 
in the succeeding winter.— -Oysterbay Academy was built in 



84 LITEHAKY CHAKACTE3, [pABT 1, 

1800.— The Academy at Southampton in 1831— at Franklin- 
ville in 1S32— at Riverhead in 1833 — at Miller's Place in 
1834, and several others of a still later date 7 sufficiently indi- 
cate that the taste for education, instead of being diminished, ia 
increasing and extending ; though it is eyident that the mul- 
tiplication of these institutions beyond a certain point, will 
surely defeat the object for which they are intended. 

The extensive institutions in the vicinity of the city, are 
not referred to as indicative of the literary disposition of Long 
Island people, or having any particular bearing on their gene- 
ral interests ; as those seminaries under the imposing names 
of Collegiate Institutes, evidently had their origin in the more 
refined taste of the city, and were as evidently designed for 
the special benefit of its more wealthy inhabitants. Their 
advantages, if desired by the plain inhabitants of the island, 
w r ould come within the reach of comparatively few of them. 

But the facts which have been detailed are sufficient to 
show, that here there has been as high an appreciation of the 
importance of intellectual culture, and according to their 
means, as noble exertions among the people to secure, for their 
children, the benefits of instruction in literature and science, 
as in any other part of this great state. And it is confidently 
believed, that not a few have spent their lives here, in the ex- 
ercise of the several learned professions, who had they been 
in a region of country, to be seen and known, would have 
been considered an honour to their respective callings, and a 
blessing to society. 

A single exception to this remark must be made to one of 
the professions on a part of this island. Till of late years, 
not a single lawyer would live by the exclusive exercise of 
his profession, within the bounds of Suffolk County. The 
writer well remembers the time, when no man could obtain an 
advocate to plead his cause, in any important case, without 
sending abroad. And this arose, not from any prejudices 
against the profession, but from the peaceable disposition of 
the inhabitants, that entirely superseded, except in a few rare 
instances, the necessity of their learned assistance. And 
though times have in some measure changed, and gentlemen 
of the bar are a little more numerous here than when there 
was none, yet it is still a fact that Suffolk County is no place, 
and furnishes no occasion, for laborious investigations in legal 
science, nor any suitable recompense for those who are capa- 
ble of making them. 

These remarks, of course, do not apply to the other coun- 



SECT. 9.] LITERARY CHARACTER. 85 

ties, where the profession of the law is as well stocked, and 
by gentlemen as respectable in talents, character and ac- 
quirements, as in any other part of the country. 

In regard to the other learned professions, it is sufficient to 
say, that they have usually been rilled by men of respecta- 
bility and usefulness. And though there may have been few 
among them who have attained to eminence, (and that, pro- 
bably, from the circumscribed and retired field of their la- 
bours,) yet they have enjoyed the confidence and respect of 
the communities, in which they lived, and their memory is 
cherished with respect, affection, and gratitude. It may also 
be remarked, that not a few of the names which have been 
distinguished in the annals of our country, were of those who 
were natives of the island, or laid the foundation of their emi- 
nence in its literary institutions. 

The number of Newspapers published on Long Island, be- 
sides those taken from the city, afford some indication of the 
taste of the people for reading. 

The first newspaper published on the island was commenced 
at Sag Harbour, May 10th, 1791, under the style of the "Long 
Island Herald." After undergoing several changes, the 
establishment passed into the hands of Alden Spooner, Esq., 
who continued the paper, under the name of the " Suffolk 
Gazette," from Feb. 1S04 to 1811. 

In June 1799, Thomas Kirk issued a paper at Brooklyn, 
the "Long Island Advertizer," which was discontinued after 
4 years. In June, 1809, he issued the " Long Island Star" 
which has continued to sparkle with undiminished splendour 
to the present day. In May, 1811, this paper became the 
property of Mr. Spooner, who has conducted it to the present 
day, and may, with propriety be styled the veteran-editor of 
Long Island. 

In 1836, the Star was issued as a daily paper, but after 6 
months' trial, was discontinued for want of adequate patronage. 
It was renewed March 1841, and has since been continued in 
its daily form. 

There are now 2 daily papers, besides 3 weekly or semi- 
weekly published in Brooklyn. 

In addition to these, there are 3 weekly papers published at 
Wiliiamsburgh, 2 at Jamaica, and one at each of the following 
places, viz., Hempstead, Huntington, Sag Harbour, and Green- 
port. There are also 2 or 3 other periodicals published on the 
island. 



86 SPIRIT OF TOLERATION. [PART 1, 

SECTION IX. 

Spirit of Toleration. 

When we consider how little the rights of conscience wero 
understood two centuries ago, and how ready the fugitives 
from persecution were to require conformity to their views, 
when they found themselves in the ascendency, it is a most 
gratifying fact, in the history of this island, to find its inhabit- 
ants almost unanimous, in their opposition to the infliction of 
pains and penalties, for mere matters of opinion. The first 
settlers of the several towns considered it their right, as un- 
doubtedly it was, to guard their infant settlements from the 
encroachment of unwholesome inhabitants, and hence they 
enacted laws, by which no person should be admitted to a 
residence among them, without the approbation of the con- 
stituted authorities ; or, as in some towns, by a public vote in 
town meeting. And while some of them enacted heavy pe- 
nalties, to prevent the propagation of heresy or demoralizing 
principles, mere matters of opinion were not considered pun- 
ishable unless accompanied with efforts to promulgate them, 
to the corruption of others, and the disturbance of the public 
peace. 

The western settlements being for many years without any 
municipal regulations among themselves, and having no gene- 
ral patent for the territory which they occupied, exercised no 
authority over the introduction of new settlers. And hence 
this region was at first regarded as a safe asylum for the op- 
pressed and persecuted of other lands. 

It is true, however, that at an early period, the Dutch Go- 
vernment of the New Netherlands, enacted severe laws against 
the Quakers and other sects, whom they regarded as heretics. 
And in numerous instances these laws were enforced with a 
degree of cruelty that was shocking to every feeling of hu- 
manity. But the people had no hand in the enactment of 
those laws, and but few of them could be induced to take any 
part in their execution. On the contrary the great body of 
the people exhibited a decided hostility to these measures ; and 
in some instances boldly remonstrated against them, even at 
the hazard of incurring the same penalties. 

In Dec. 1657, a remonstrance against the persecution of the 
Quakers was drawn up and signed by 30 of the principal inha- 
bitants of Flushing, and some from Jamaica ; which was for- 
warded and presented by the hand of the Sheriff. The Go- 
vernor was so exasperated and determined in his course, that 



SECT. 9.] SPIRIT OF TOLERATION. 87 

he ordered the Sheriff and two of the magistrates, who had 
signed the instrument, to be arrested and imprisoned. And 
for many years these unrighteous persecutions were carried 
on, by the government and its abettors. 

We have not space to enumerate the various instances of 
cruelty and injustice, which mark this period. Suffice it to 
say that the Governor in council, imposed, Sept. 14th, 1662, 
a fine of j£25 on John Bourne, one of the most respectable in- 
habitants of Flushing, for lodging some Quakers and permit- 
ting them to hold meetings at his house. For refusing to pay 
the fine, he was thrown into prison. After being incarcerated 
at New Amsterdam three months he was ordered to be trans- 
ported to the father-land, in a ship about to sail. Bowne be- 
ing landed in Ireland, proceeded through England to Holland, 
where he made his appearance before the constituted authori- 
ties. His case halving been heard and considered, by a Com- 
mittee of the " West India Company," he was not only fully 
exonerated and set at liberty, but the following reprimand 
was sent to the Governor of the New Netherlands : — 

" Amsterdam, April 6th, 1663. 

" Sir :— We perceive from your last letter, that you had ex- 
iled and transported hither a certain Quaker, named John 
Bowne. Although it is our anxious desire, that similar and 
other sectarians may not be found among us, yet we doubt 
extremely the policy of adopting rigorous measures against 
them. In the youth of your existence, you ought rather to en- 
courage than check the population of the colony. The con* 
sciences of men ought to be free and unshackled, as long as they 
continue moderate, peaceable, inoffensive, and not hostile to 
the government. Such have been the maxims of prudence and 
toleration by which the magistrates of this city (Amsterdam) 
have been governed ; and the consequences have been, that the 
oppressed and persecuted from every country, have found, 
among us, an asylum from distress. Follow in the same steps 
and you will be blessed." 

The noble sentiments contained in this letter, though re- 
cognized in all our institutions and universally acknowledged 
at the present day, indicate a knowledge of the rights of con- 
science, which, at that period, had scarcely dawned even in 
these western climes. They probably would have had their 
full influence on the conduct of the Dutch government here, 
but soon after the receipt of the letter, and before Bowne re- 
turned, the province was surrendered to the English. It is 
said that Stuyvesant afterwards made suitable concessions to 
Mr. Bowne, and professed to regard him as a worthy citizen. 



88 SPIRIT OF TOLERATION. [PART 1, 

This, however, was rather a meagre compensation for the cru- 
elty, expense and trouble, that he had inflicted upon him. 

The only case of severe treatment of any of these people, 
which we have been able to find originating in the eastern 
towns, is that of Humphrey Norton, who had distinguished 
himself by writing insulting letters, and using opprobrious 
language to the magistrates of New England. Having come 
to Southold he entered the church, " interrupted and slandered 
the minister, vilified the magistrates and disturbed the peace 
of the jurisdiction." Either from their supposed incompe- 
tency to try the case, or from his belonging to New England, 
the magistrates of Southold sent him to New Haven for his 
trial, which took place in March, 1C58. Besides being con- 
victed of the acts alleged, " he conducted himself in a very 
insolent and boisterous manner before the court." He was 
condemned "to pay a fine of £20, to be severely whipped, 
branded with the letter H, upon his hand, and banished the 
jurisdiction ;" the court declaring that '* it was the least they 
could do and discharge good conscience towards God." 

This, it must be acknowledged, was a severe and cruel sen- 
tence. But let it be remembered, that in this, and a great 
many other cases that occurred in New England, the penalty 
was inflicted, not for a mere difference of religious opinion, or 
alleged heresy ; but for invading the rights of individuals, and 
disturbing the public peace. And though the writer has no 
wish to screen from merited censure the unrighteous and cruel 
acts even of good men, yet we are apt to forget, that, in most 
cases, the men who incurred these severe penalties, instead of 
being that mild, peaceable sect, who now bear the name of 
quakers, were then wild fanatics, who verily thought they were 
doing God service by disturbing religious assemblies, vilify- 
ing ministers of the gospel, insulting the magistrates, and in- 
vading the peace of society. From overlooking this fact there 
has been a great deal of sympathy on the one hand, and much 
unjust opprobrium on the other, misapplied, in relation to those 
ancient transactions. But, as cruel and disproportioned as 
Norton's sentence was, it was not inflicted by Long Island 
magistrates; and therefore our fathers are not chargeable 
with its severity. 

As nearly allied to this topic, is the subject of trials for al- 
leged witchcraft. From the strong affinity between the 
greater part of the inhabitants of Long Island and those of 
New England, it could scarcely be expected, that the gross 
delusion and consequent excitement of the Salem witchcraft, 
would fail to produce similar developments in these secluded 



SECT. 9.] SPIRIT OF TOLERATION. 89 

regions. But to the credit of Long Island, it may be stated, 
that only three cases of this nature are known to have origi- 
nated here ; and, in not one of these, did the magistrates ven- 
ture to pass judgment or inflict punishment. 

In 1657, the wife of John Garlicke, of Easthampton, was 
accused of witchcraft before the magistrates of the town. 
The evidence was such as to satisfy many of the guilt of the 
accused, and, of course, produced great excitement in the 
community. But the magistrates, professing to be ignorant of 
the science of demonology, resolved to send the accused to 
the General Court at Hartford, where the subject was suppos- 
ed to be better understood. The result is not known ; nor, 
is there any evidence that the accused was ever sent thither. 
The probability is, that the prosecution was dropped, without 
further investigation ; as it is known, that Lyon Gardiner ac- 
tually charged one of the witnesses with causing the death of 
her own child, which she had ascribed to the witchcraft of 
" Goody Garlicke." Both of these women had been employ- 
ed in his household ; the witness had taken an Indian child to 
nurse ; and, for the sake of the pay, had starved her 
own child ; and then to shield herself from censure, she 
imputed its death to the malice of the other. When we 
consider the high character of Mr. Gardiner, the respect with 
which his opinions were treated by the people of Easthampton, 
and, the favourable opportunity he had enjoyed to ascertain 
the facts in the case, it is scarcely to be supposed, that it was 
prosecuted further. And then, the entire absen.ce of all re- 
cord of any further proceedings, renders it more than probable 
that the case was dropped. 

In 1660, a woman in Oyster Bay, by the name of Mary 
Wright being suspected of witchcraft, was sent to Massachu- 
setts for trial. But instead of the crime alleged, she was con- 
victed of quakeris?n, and sentenced to banishment. 

In 1665, Ralph Hall and his wife, of Brookhaven, were sus- 
pected of witchcraft, and were sent to New York to be tried 
by the Court of Assize. The trial is reported at length in 
Yates' continuation of Smith's History of New York, and re- 
sulted in the acquittal of the accused. 

These three cases form the beginning, the middle, and the 
end of the History of witchcraft on Long Island ; though it 
must be confessed, that the public mind was deeply impregnat- 
ed with the superstition on that subject which prevailed in 
former days. And scarcely a generation has passed away 
since the telling of witch-stories was one of the principal 
amusements of children, in their evening assemblages, which 



90 THE ABORIGINES OF THE ISLAND. [PART 1, 

was often continued till they were afraid to look behind them, 
or disperse to their respective homes. It is a matter of de- 
vout thankfulness, that more rational entertainments for the 
youthful mind abound in our day ; and that there is as little 
taste as reason for these bug-bear amusements. 

SECTION X. 

The Aborigines of the Island. 

At the time of the first settlement of Long Island, by the 
Dutch and English, the whole territory was occupied by thir- 
teen distinct tribes of Aborigines. In some early records, one 
or two others are named, but they are believed to have been 
the mere remnants of tribes, whose locality is unknown. The 
folio win o- are the names and locations of those above men- 

o 

tioned. 

1. The Canarsee (or Canausie) tribe, who occupied the 
whole territory, of what is now King's County, together with 
a portion of Jamaica. 

2. The Rockaway tribe occupied the territory about Rocka- 
way, and extended across the island including parts of Jamaica 
and Newtown. 

3. The Matinecock tribe were situated on the north side, 
extending from Flushing to Fresh Pond, in the eastern part of 
Huntington. 

4. The Nissequag tribe extended from Fresh pond to Stony 
Brook. 

5. The Selauket tribe, from Stony Brook to the Wading 
river ; which is now the western boundary of Riverhead. 

6. The Corchavg tribe possessed the territory east of the 
Wading river, including the entire townships of Riverhead 
and Southold, or the northern branch of the Island. 

7 and 8. The Mericoke and Marsapeague tribes were situ- 
ated on the South side, extending from the Rockaways into 
the county of Suffolk. 

9. The Secafague tribe were situated east of those last men- 
tioned and extended to the eastern part of Islip. 

10. The Patchogue tribe extended thence to the western 
parts of Southampton. 

11. The Shinnecock tribe occupied the region about Canoe 
Place, and the residue of the southern branch, probably as far 
as to Eastharnpton line. 

12. The Montauk tribe resided principally on the peninsula 
of Montauk, though a few were scattered on the shores of 
Gardiner's Bay, and other adjacent parts. 



SECT. 10.] THE ABORIGINES OP THE ISLAND. 91 

13. The Manhasset tribe were the occupants of Shelter 
Island. 

These thirteen tribes, under their respective Sagamores or 
Chiefs, as if an emblem of the future government of the whole 
country, were once united in a grand confederacy, under one 
great and powerful chief, who was styled the '* Grand Sachem 
of Paumanacke — or Sewanhacka." 

But before the settlement of the island was commenced by 
Europeans, the independence of all these tribes had been in- 
vaded, by the more numerous and powerful nations on the 
main. The Canarsees had been subdued by the Mohawks, 
and placed under a fixed tribute of "wampum and dried 
clams ;" which was annually collected, with the utmost rigidi- 
ty. The residue of the island, the most of which was still 
under the jurisdiction of a single Chief, had been laid under 
tribute to the Pequots in New England ; and after their sub- 
jugation by the whites, the same allegiance and tribute were 
claimed by the Narragansetts. 

The Manhasset and the Montauk tribes, though occupying 
the smallest and most remote territorial limits, were the de- 
positories of supreme power. Montauk was, in fact, the royal 
tribe, and Wyandanch, its powerful Chief, was the Grand 
Sachem, of whom the whites purchased their lands, throughout 
nearly the whole extent of the island. — While his elder bro- 
ther Poggatacut, the Sachem of Manhasset, lived, he was in- 
deed regarded as the supreme chief, but, probably, from his 
age, and not from any superior claims of the tribe, over 
which he presided. When he paid the debt of nature, Wyan- 
danch was regarded as the Grand Sachem, without a rival. 
Nowedinah — the Chief of the Shinnecock tribe, was also a 
brother of Wyandanch. 

Besides, Montauk bore evident marks, many of which are 
not yet obliterated, of being the seat of royal authority, and 
the citadel of power. Here were the largest and best fortifi- 
cations, of purely Indian construction, that can be found, in 
any part of our extended country. The Fort, on the north 
east side of Fort Pond, erected on what is now called Fort 
Hill, was about 100 feet square, and its remains are still 
visible. 

•« The rampart and parapet, (say * the Chronicles of Easthampton,' to 
which we shall be indebted, for many interesting particulars, especially in 
this Section,) were of earth, with a ditch at the foot of the glacis; and 
probably palisadoed with the trunks of fallen trees. At each angle, there 
was apparently a round tower of earth and stone ; and the whole would 



92 THE ABORIGINES OP THE ISLAND. [PART 1, 

probably have held from three to five hundred men. The pond on the 
south afforded a safe and convenient harbour for canoes, under the imme- 
diate protection of the fort. Its contiguity to the pond, yielded also an 
abundant supply of fresh water, on a side, where communication was 
easily kept up, by the facility of protection. The location was one of de- 
cided advantage for protection and defence ; and must have been sufficient 
against any attack, which Indian tactics could have brought to bear upon 
it. On the west side, the ground descends, almost perpendicularly, to 
Fort Pond ; and on the east, it is level for some distance. From the Fort, 
the headland of Wamponomon (Montauk- point) can be seen, and it over- 
looks the pond and the bay on the north." 

This territory is also remarkable, as the depository of the 
dead. Here arc several of the largest burying places known 
on the island ; where hundreds and perhaps thousands of these 
poor benighted pagans, were committed to their mother earth, 
amid the lamentations and howlings of their surviving friends. 
They brought their dead from a great distance, to deposit their 
ashes in this venerated spot. The remains of Poggatacut were 
brought from Shelter Island, the greater part of the way on 
men's shoulders, to be deposited with the royal family at the 
citadel of the empire. 

There are some remarkable curiosities here too, which are 
worthy of the traveller's notice, and were objects of supersti- 
tious reverence, to these children of nature. About half a 
mile from the Fort, in a south easterly direction, is a granite 
rock imbedded in the ground, on the upper surface of which, is 
the apparent impress of a human foot. 

" The figure is as perfect and distinct as would follow from the pressure 
of the left foot, upon some soft cohesive substance ; except being deficient 
in a toe : — a deficiency, not at first sight, apparent ; and discernible, only 
by inspection. No artist could have chiselled a more perfect resemblance. 
The impression is still fresh, and without the least appearance of injury 
from time. There are two other tracks less perfect and distinct : the one 
in the Indian fie'd, and the other west of Fort Pond. The heel of the foot 
is towards the east, in all of them ;' as though formed in passing to the 
west. Excepting that ' they are the foot steps of the evil spirit' no record 
or tradition pretends to give their story. They existed at the first settle- 
ment by the whites, and were a subject of pawwa to the Indians." 

"• In the first woods, as one enters on Montaukett from the west, called 
Hither Woods, is a granite rock, flat and smooth, upon the surface of 
which are several spots of the colour of blood. The tradition of the Indians 
holds them to have been caused by the flow of blood from the wound of a 
chief, who was there killed by the arrow of an enemy. It is called the 
jumping place ; and near the rock is a small cavity in the ground, said to 
have been made by the expiring leap of the chief." 

In close alliance with the last mentioned fact, and in con- 
nection with the wonders of Montauk, may be mentioned a 
similar marvel in the vicinity of Sag Harbour. 



SECT. 10.] THE ABORIGINES OF THE ISLAND. 93 

" The death of Sachem Poggatacut, in 1G51, was an important event 
with the Indians. His remains were transported, for burial, from Shelter 
Island to Montaukett. In removing the body, the bearers rested the bier, 
by the side of the road leading from Sag Harbour to Easthampton, near 
the 3rd mile stone,* where a small excavation was made to designate the 
spot. From that time to the present, more than 190 years, this memorial 
has remained, as fresh seemingly, as if but lately made. Neither leaf, nor 
stone, nor any other thing, has been suffered to remain in it. The Mon- 
taukett tribe, though reduced to a beggarly number of some ten or fifteen 
drunken and degraded beings, have retained, to this day, the memory of 
the event ; and no one individual of them now passes the spot in his Wan- 
derings, without removing whatever may have fallen into it. The place 
is, to them, holy ground ; and the exhibition of this pious act, docs honour 
to the finest feelings of the human heart. The excavation is about 13 
inches in depth, and 18 in diameter, in the form of a mortar." 

The reader may be assured that this is no humbug. The 
writer has been acquainted with the fact, for nearly forty years, 
and he has examined the hole within the present year, (1845) and 
-found it in its original form and freshness, as above described. 

From the first immigration of the whites, Wyandanch was their 
unwavering friend. Though often cajoled and threatened by the 
N. E. Indians, to induce him to conspire against his new neigh- 
bours, he not only rejected their overtures, but even delivered 
their agents into the hands of the English. He reposed un- 
bounded confidence in Lyon Gardiner ; and communicated 
to him, without reserve, every thing that involved his own 
interests, or the safety of the whites. From this source, that 
gentleman, during a period of 14 years, derived much import- 
ant information not only to the people of the island, but also 
to the N. E. colonics. His elder brother, Poggatacut, was 
of a different disposition. Though he did not venture to act 
out his hostility, yet ho always regarded the new comers a3 
intruders, aad disapproved the partiality, which his brother 
manifested towards them. But he was taken away at an 
early period, and without a favourable opportunity or pretext, 
to do any material injury to the infant settlements. 

The aboriginal population of Long Island, previous to its 
discovery by the whites, must have been very numerous. Of 
this, the immense shell-banks, on the shores of its numerous 
harbours and bays, and the extensive tracts devoted to the 
cultivation of corn, afforded conclusive evidence. Besides 
these, there are traditions of the same fact, which are entitled 
to respect. " An ancient Indian, more than a hundred years 
ago, declared to one of the oldest inhabitants of Easthampton, 
that within his recollection, the natives were as many as the 

* The 4 th mile stone from Sag Harbour. 



94 THE ABORIGINES OF THE ISLAND. [PART 1, 

spears of grass ; and if, said he, stretching his hands over the 
ground, you can count these ; then, when I was a boy, you 
could have reckoned their number." But frequent wars and 
successive diseases, had greatly thinned their ranks : and the 
same causes, increased in power by the vices contracted in 
their intercourse with their new neighbours, even where the 
most benevolent efforts were made to prevent the evil, conti- 
"hued to accelerate the work of death, till they are now 
brought to the verge of extinction. 

To trace the operation of these causes in all their details, 
would occupy more space than is consistent with the design 
of this sketch. A few facts, however, may be mentioned. 

The Canarsee tribe, having, as it is said, by the advice of 
the whites, withheld their annual tribute from the Mohawks, 
were invaded, and nearly exterminated, by that powerful na- 
tion. And after the destruction of the Pequots by the New 
England colonies, the Narragansetts made war upon the 
Montauk Indians, which continued for many years ; and, 
in which, they were reduced to the greatest extremity. They 
earnestly solicited, and for a while obtained assistance from 
New England ; but when this was afterwards withheld, they 
were obliged to desert their citadel, and cast themselves upon 
the people of Easthampton for protection. 

In one of these assaults* led on by Ninicraft, the chief of 
the Narragansetts, Wyandanch was surprised, in the midst of 
the revels of a marriage feast, while he with his braves, was 
celebrating the nuptials of his only daughter. Their wig- 
wams were fired, their granaries rifled or destroyed, the prin- 
cipal warriors slain ; and to complete the triumph of the ene- 
my, and the misery of the unfortunate chief, the youthful 
bride was carried away captive, leaving the bridegroom, who 
had just " plighted his troth," weltering in his own blood. It 
was for procuring the ransom of this beloved daughter, that 
Wyandanch, in the last year of his life, gave to Lyon Gardi- 
ner, a conveyance of the territory now constituting the prin- 
cipal part of Smithtown. 

The conduct of the Long Island Indians towards the 
whites, is without a parallel, in the history of this country. 
It was to be expected that individual acts of aggression 
would occur, on the part of a barbarous people, for real or 
supposed injuries. But even these were rare ; and the Indians 
always showed themselves willing to submit to an impartial 
investigation, and just decision of alleged wrongs. 

One of the first occurrences, of this kind, was the murder 



SECT. 10.] THE AB0KIGINE3 OF THE ISLAND. 95 

of a woman at Southampton, in 1649 ; which instantly spread 
fearful apprehensions, of a general insurrection against the 
white settlements. The magistrates of that town, immedi- 
ately, sent a messenger to Montauk, and summoned Wyan- 
danch to appear before them. His councillors, fearing that 
he would be summarily condemned to death, by way of re- 
taliation, advised him not to obey the summons. Before he* 
expressed his own opinion, he submitted the case to Mr. 
Gardiner, who happened to be lodging in his wigwam that 
same night. By his advice, he set out immediately for 
Southampton, Mr. G. agreeing to remain as a hostage to the 
tribe, for the safety of their beloved chief. With amazing 
celerity, he not only accomplished the journey of twenty-five 
miles, but actually apprehended on his way, and delivered to 
the magistrates, the murderers of the woman ; who, instead 
of being his own subjects, proved to be Pequot Indians from 
the main ; some of whom were generally lurking on the 
island, for the purpose of promoting disturbances between the 
natives and the new settlers. These men being sent to 
Hartford, were there tried, convicted and executed. 

Both before and after this occurrence, the suspicions of 
the whites were frequently so strong, that they carried their 
arms into their fields and their churches ; and forbade the 
Indians to enter their settlements, with their usual weapons. 
But except occasional depredations on the property and 
lives of individuals, the Indians from one end of the island to 
the other, lived on terms of friendship with the whites. 

It is a remarkable fact, which should be recorded to the eternal 
honour of the Long Island Indians, that they never formed a 
general conspiracy, even of a single tribe, against the whites. 
The only apparent exception to this remark, it being the only 
instance in which the natives stood upon their arms, against 
their new neighbours, was the ever to be lamented battle of 
Fort Neck. And although the origin of this unfortunate ren- 
counter is veiled in obscurity, there were circumstances con- 
nected with the event, which induce the belief, that if the whole 
truth could be developed, instead of implicating the poor na- 
tives in the guilt of that transaction', they would appear en- 
titled to the universal respect and gratitude of the settlers. 
It was generally believed at the time, that the dissatisfaction 
and aggressions, in which this affair originated, were insti- 
gated by the Dutch Government, with a view to expel the 
English from Long Island and Connecticut. The fact is 
on record, that some of the L. I. Chiefs sent a messenger 



96 THE ABORIGINES OF THE ISLAND. [FART 1, 

to Connecticut with the information, that the Dutch 
Fiscal had offered them arms, ammunition and clothing ; on 
condition of their joining in the destruction of the English. 
And it is added, that strong efforts were made to induce the 
western tribes to renounce their allegiance to the Mont auk 
chief, who was known to be the staunch friend of the Eng- 
lish settlers. These statements were indeed, indignantly 
denied by the Dutch Governor, and an examination invited ; 
for which Commissioners were appointed. But they broke 
up, without accomplishing their object, or allaying the sus- 
picions which had been previously excited. 

These threatening rumours spread fearful apprehension, to 
the extreme end of the island ; and every town adopted 
measures of defence. An application was made to the com- 
missioners of the United colonies of New England for aid ; 
and although it was defeated by the opposition of Massachu- 
setts, the Legislature of Rhode Island, alone, resolved to send 
help to their brethren, in this emergency. They accordingly 
commissioned three officers to proceed to Long Island, with 
20 volunteers, and some pieces of ordnance. And it is not 
the least deplorable circumstance, in this expedition, that the 
chief command was committed to Capt. John Unclerhill, of 
Massachusetts notoriety, who, to say nothing of his moral 
character, had learned the mode of dealing with Indians, in 
New England, and not on Long Island. 

When matters came to the worst, it appears, that a part 
only of the Marsapeague tribe, with a few disaffected indi- 
viduals from other tribes, whose hostility the Dutch had arous- 
ed, and could not now control, assembled in hostile array. 
They entrenched themselves in the town of Oysterbay, on the 
south side, in a redoubt or fort, in extent about 50 by 30 yards, 
the remains of which are still visible, and has ever since borne 
the name of Fort Neck. Here, without having made any 
aggression on the surrounding country, they were attacked by 
the English, who after slaying a considerable number, com- 
pletely dispersed the residue.* 

This action, which constitutes the first, and the last battle, 
between the Long Island Indians and the white settlers, took 
place in the summer of 1653, though the precise date is not 
known. And under all the circumstances of the case, there 
is much reason to question, whether there was any real neces- 
sity for the chastisement inflicted. 

* Hubbard says that Underhill " having 120 men, killed 150 Indians 
on Long Island and 300 on the main lar.d." 



SECT. 10.] THE ABOEIV3INES OP THE ISLAND. 97 

From this time forward, the L. I. Indians gave the whites 
no cause of alarm. And though in 1675, the Governor of 
New York, under the apprehension, that they might be se- 
duced or compelled by the Narragansetts, to engage with them 
in King Phillip's war, ordered all their canoes from Hurlgate 
to Montauk to be seized, and guarded ; they tamely submitted 
to the order, without the smallest act of resistance or aggres- 
sion. 

It has been supposed, that the native temper of these tribes, 
was not less savage and cruel than those on the main. If this 
is correct, their peaceable deportment can be ascribed to no- 
thing else, than the kind and equitable treatment which they 
always received from the whites ; and which, in many instan- 
ces, forms a striking contrast to that which they experienced 
in some other parts of the land. 

In this connexion the following extract from Hubbard's 
General History of New England, is worthy of special no- 
tice. 

" The Indians on Long Island were more fierce and barbarous ; for one 
Capt. Howe, about this time, going with * or II) men to a wigwam there, 
to demand an Indian that had killed one Hammond, an Engii-hman, the 
Indian ran violently out with a knife in his hand, wherewith he wounded 
one of the company) thinking to escape from them, so as they were forced 
to kill him upon the place ; which so awed the rest, that they durst not 
attempt any revenge. If they had been always so handled, they would 
aot have dared to have rebelled, as they did afterwards." 

Scarcely a more conclusive evidence could be furnished of 
the inveterate prejudices against the poor Indians, that existed 
in some parts of the country, and the unreasonable grounds 
on which they were sustained. Here, a poor Indian was at- 
tacked in his own domicile, by 8 or 10 armed men ; and, be- 
cause he seizes the first weapon that lies in his way, and tries 
to make his escape, and, in rushing through the midst of his 
assailants, inflicts a wound upon one of them, this is to be 
set down as conclusive evidence of extreme fierceness and 
barbarity I And for this act of self defence, he is instantly 
shot down as a brute. On which side ought the charge of 
barbarism to be alleged ? The concluding sentence of the 
above paragraph is equally worthy of animadversion. '* If 
they had always been so handled," — yes, if such acts of cru- 
elty had been repeated on Long Island, as they were in many 
parts of the main, no doubt, the Indians here would have 
been provoked to the same measures of retaliation and revenge 
which are there recorded. But the early settlers of the isl- 

5 



98 THE ABORIGINES OP THE ISLAND. [PART 1, 

land, by adopting and maintaining a directly opposite policy, 
were not only preserved from all hostile combinations, but. 
reaaily obtained redress for occasional aggressions, which 
were scarcely more numerous here, than now occur among 
an equal number of civilized inhabitants. 

In confirmation of these views, the writer takes pleasure in 
citing the oft-repeated testimony of his townsman and per- 
sonal friend, the Hon. Silas Wood : — ■ 

" The Indians on Long Island seem to have been less troublesome to 
the whites, than those north of the Sound.' They ' sometimes commit- 
ted depredations on the property of the whites.' But * it does not ap- 
pear that they ever formed any general combination against the first set- 
tlers, or materially interrupted the progress of their improvements.' * The 
security of the whites must be ascribed to the means they employed to 
preserve peace with the Indians.' ' Both the English and the Dutch 
respected the rights of the Indians, and no land was taken up by the se- 
veral towns, 01 by individuals, until it had been fairly purchased of the 
chiefs of the tribe, who claimed it.' * Both powers endeavoured to pre- 
vent the evils which usually result, from the use of spirituous liquors by 
the Indians.' 'Thus the Dutch on the west, and the English on trie 
east end, maintained a constant friendship with the Indian tribes in their 
respective neighbourhoods ; and while they were friendly with each other, 
the Indians, from one end of the island to the other, were friendly with 
"both. It may have been partly in consequence of the destruction of their 
warriors in their recent wars, and of their military spirit being broken by 
their subjection to successive conquerors — but it was principally, by cul- 
tivating the friendship of the chiefs, and particularly of the Sachem of 
the whole— by uniform justice and kindness — by preventing excitement 
hy artificial means — and by rendering success hopeless, by withholding 
the means necessary to insure it, that the whites were exempted from any 
hostile combinations of the Long Island Indians." See Wood's History ; 
both editions. 

These short extracts tell the whole story ; and it is one 
that is equally honourable to the first settlers of the island, 
and the Indians. And while the same judicious author re- 
marks, '* There is no reason to believe that this exemption 
from Indian hostilities, was owing to a better disposition, or 
milder character of the natives of the island," it affords just 
ground for the inference, that if the rights of the aborigines, 
in every part of the country, had been as sacredly respected, 
and the same means had been used to secure and preserve their 
friendship, the horrors of Indian aggressions, and the bloody 
measures of retaliation which disgrace the early annals of our 
country, would have been greatly diminished, if not entirely 
prevented. The fact is, the Indians have been, not only a 
deeply injured, but a grossly misrepresented people. And as 
much as they have been traduced and vilified, the writer can- 



SECT. 10.] THE ABORIGINES OF THE ISLAND. 99 

not but regard them as a noble, generous, high-minded race : 
and he would rather trust his property or life, in the hand of 
one of these natives of the forest, if one could be found un- 
contaminated by the vices of the white man, than-to nine out 
of ten of their customary revilers. 

To the ravages of war, those of pestilence must be added 
as a principal means of diminishing the aboriginal population 
of the island. In 1658, a most terrible disease invaded the 
Indians, through the whole extent of the island ; and it was 
supposed that in the course of that year and the next succeed- 
ing, nearly two thirds of their number were swept into the 
grave. At this awful period, Wyandanch, the last mighty 
Chieftain of Paumanacke, fell a victim, not however to the 
prevailing distemper, but, as it was alleged, by poison; though 
by whose instigation or agency, is not told. He died in 
1659, leaving a son, called Weoncombone, and the daughter, 
who had been rescued from captivity. 

The son, being a minor, then in his 19th year, had been, by 
his father's appointment, placed under the guardianship of 
Lyon Gardiner. He was acknowledged, both by the Indians 
and the whites, as the legitimate successor, but the govern- 
ment was administered by Wicchitaubit, the widow of the de- 
ceased chief, under the title of " Sachem or Sung-squaw" a 
term of similar import with Queen-dowager. She, however, 
enjoyed the power but a short time, being cut off by disease, 
Aug. 6th, 1660. The government then devolved on the 
young Sachem, who exercised supreme authority, under the 
advice of his guardian.* 

It was at this time that the Indians were compelled to leave 
their favourite peninsula, and take up their residence near 
Easthampton, to enjoy the protection of the whites against 
their foes across the water. And being thus obliged to abandon 
this delectable spot, the ancient capital of the kingdom, and 
literally " the land of their fathers' sepulchres," they conveyed 
the whole peninsula of Montauk from Neapeague Beach to 
Womponomon, to the inhabitants of the town for <£100. They 
reserved, however, the right of redemption, if they should ever 

* That the Montauk Sachem, up to this time, was the acknowledged 
Chief of the whole island, is evident from the fact, that a contract be- 
tween the people of Hempstead and the Marsapeague, Mericoke and 
Rockaway Indians, settling the boundaries of their lands, made b}' order 
of Wyandanch in 1658, has thcfollowing endorsement. 

" Subscribed by Weoncombone, Montauk Sachem, after the death of 
his father, this 14th day of February, 1660." 

Lore. 



100 THE ABORIGINES OF THE ISLAND. [PART 1, 

be disposed to return to this beloved spot ; and £ usu-fruct 
title to a part of the land, which the remnants of the tribe 
have continued to enjoy. 

In 1662, the small-pox broke out among the Indians, and 
prevailed so extensively, and with so much virulence, that the 
inhabitants of the town felt compelled to prohibit, under severe 
penalties, all intercourse with them. Multitudes were again 
swept into the grave ; and among others, the young Sachem, 
who, having just arrived at his majority, had assumed the un- 
restrained exercise of supreme power. Whether his sister 
survived him, is not known. But as no mention of her name 
occurs after this period, it has been supposed that she died of 
the same loathsome disease. And thus the royal race of Pau- 
manacke became extinct. The glory of the " Sachems of Se- 
wanhacka" had expired with the brave and generous Wyan- 
danch. His son had no opportunity to emulate the noble and 
amiable qualities of his father. His daughter, made a captive 
and a widow in the very hour of her espousals, fell an early 
prey to disease ; and thus " the blood of this mighty Chief, who 
had been for many years a terror to his enemies, and a bene- 
factor to his friends, whose influence and authority had been 
exercised probably over a million and a half* of the human 
race, like that of the Mingo brave, runs not now in the veins 
of any living being." 

Many a colossal monument has been reared towards hea- 
ven, and inscribed with names less worthy of memorial, than 
that of the Grand Sachem of Sewanhacka. Even Brandt and 
Red Jacket, and other great warriors of aboriginal descent, 
are immortalized by their deeds of blood in the annals of the 
historian, while the name of Wyandanch — the white marts 
unwavering friend — sleeps in all the silence and solitude of 
Montauk. It is the fashion of the world to immortalize the 
destroyers of men ; while their benefactors are permitted to 
sink into oblivion. 

Since the death of Weoncombone, there has been no Grand 
Sachem, or even Sagamore of a single tribe, who could com- 
mand obedience from his subjects, or the respect of their 
neighbours. Though the dignity was nominally maintained 
for many years, it was rather the shadow of what had been, 
than the depository of authority and power. And all the abo- 
riginal tribes of the island have been, from that time, in the 

* This is probably a large estimate of the former aboriginal population 
of the island, for which the present writer is not answerable. 



SECT. 10.] THE ABORIGINES OF THE ISLAND. 101 

condition of Israel as described bv the prophet : " Without a 
king, and without a prince, and without a sacrifice, and with- 
out an image, and without an ephod, and without a terra- 
phim," to this day. 

To the ravages of war and pestilence, as direct causes of 
diminishing the aboriginal population, must be added their 
instinctive love, or insatiable thirst, for intoxicating liquors ; 
which, with all the restrictions imposed by the early, conscien- 
tious settlers, they could not be prevented from indulging. To 
the honour of many of the towns, their early records contain 
rigid prohibitions to the introduction of intoxicating drinks 
among the Indians, either for love or money ; and these laws 
were strictly enforced. But as the white population increased, 
the facilities for procuring this destructive element increased, 
till the work of death, which has been gradually going on, and 
with constantly-increasing rapidity, through two entire cen- 
turies, has well-nigh become complete. There are many per- 
sons now living who can well remember that there were a few 
remnants of several tribes, in different parts of the island, who 
formerly travelled about, with a huge back-load of baskets, 
which they had made and fancifully adorned with various 
colours ; or a large bundle of hickory brooms and scrub- 
brushes, by the sale of which they assisted themselves to bread 
and clothing. But such a sight is now rarely seen. Except- 
ing here and there an individual, who, by his complexion and 
straight black hair, gives some evidence of aboriginal descent, 
the remains of all the original tribes of the island are almost 
exclusively confined to the two small settlements of Shinne- 
cock and Montauk. The former consists of about thirty-five 
families, embracing one hundred and forty individuals, not 
more than one of whom can boast of pure aboriginal blood ; 
and the other, only three families, comprehending eight or 
ten individuals. And the present prospect is, that in a few 
more years the race will be extinct, and their reserved lands 
will fall, for the want of a claimant, into the hands of the 
white man. 

Besides these, there are a few remnants similarly amalga- 
mated with African blood, at Poosepatuck, near Moriches, in 
the south part of the town of Brookhaven. If others exist, 
they consist only of single families scattered in different parts 
of the island. 

In regard to the arts of life, the Long Island Indians had 
made little or no progress beyond their brethren on the main. 
They were, indeed, among (he principal manufacturers of 



102 THE ABORIGINES OF THE ISLAND. [PART 1, 

wampum, which was the circulating medium of the country, 
besides being used for ornamental purposes ; and that made 
by the natives of the island was deemed the most beautiful 
and valuable. This, it is evident, was the most delicate and 
difficult art practised among them. To reduce fragments of 
sea-shells to the size and exterior form of little beads, though 
a long and tedious process, might be readily done. But then, 
without an iron-tool, of any description, to perforate each one, 
so as to be capable of being strung, appears to us perfectly 
impracticable. How this was accomplished seems never to 
have been handed down, as it was laid aside very soon after 
the white settlers came in. In all payments for land, they 
required, among other articles, a certain number of " muxes," 
which were small brad-awls, that they then used in the manu- 
facture of wampum. 

They also manufactured a species of earthern ware, for 
domestic purposes ; also matting of reeds and rushes, mocca- 
sins, baskets and wooden bowls. But their greatest labour 
and skill were applied to the manufacture of the implements 
of war, and the tools necessary to their production. Their 
stone axes were among their most difficult and curious pro- 
ductions, of which specimens still exist. Their arrow-heads, 
formed out of the flint-stone, and chipped down to a sharp 
point, with a shank and neck to be attached to the shaft, ap- 
pear to have been incapable of construction without metallic 
tools, of which they had none. Their bows and bow-strings 
of more easy contrivance, were made with singular judgment 
and taste. But their greatest works of art were their sea- 
craft. Their canoes were severally formed from trees, cut 
down with stone axes, and excavated by the alternate use of 
fire and their rude tools. It is said that some of their canoes 
were capable of carrying eighty persons ; and that, in these, 
they made voyages as far as New-York and Boston. As in 
other parts of the country, the women not only managed the 
affairs of the wigwam, but performed the labours of the field, 
with no aid from the other sex except that of the old men and 
children. 

In regard to their religion, the Long Island Indians were 
polytheists and idolaters. Besides the good and the evil spirit, 
to each of which they seemed to ascribe supreme power, they 
had a god for each of the four corners of the earth, the four 
seasons of the year, and others of the elements of nature, the 
productions of the earth, the vicissitudes of day and night, be- 
sides a number of domestic deities. The good deity they 



SECT. 10.] THE ABORIGINES OF THE ISLAND. 103 

called CauhluntoowuU and the evil spirit was named Mutche- 
shesumetook ; to both of which they paid homage and offered 
sacrifices. They had small idols or images which, they sup- 
posed, were acquainted with the will of the gods, and made it 
known to the pawwaics, or priests. These possessed unbound- 
ed influence, from their supposed intercourse with the gods and 
knowledge of their will. Their religious festivals were at- 
tended with the most violent gesticulations and horrible yells, 
as well as other disorders. They firmly believed in a future 
state of existence, in a far distant country to the west, where 
the brave and good would enjoy themselves eternally in sing- 
ing, feasting, hunting and dancing ; while the coward and 
traitor, the thief and liar, would be eternally condemned to 
servile labour, so much despised by the Indian ; which, in its 
results, should be attended with endless disappointment. The 
dead were buried in all their personal attire ; and if warriors, 
in their arms. The body was placed in a sitting posture, and 
after being covered up, a bowl of seaump (pounded corn) was 
placed on the grave to support the occupant on his imagined 
journey. The period of mourning continued a full year, the 
close of which was celebrated with a feast, accompanied with 
dancing, that continued from the setting to the rising of the 
sun. It was a peculiar custom of this singular people, never 
to mention the names of their departed friends, after their re- 
mains were deposited in tombs ; and it was regarded as an in- 
sult if repeated by others. Every wigwam in which death oc- 
curred was immediately demolished, and a new one, if needed, 
erected in its stead. 

Although the recital of the measures adopted for the chris- 
tian instruction of the Indians, and the success which attended 
them, properly belongs to a subsequent part of this work ; it 
will, for the sake of completing the history of this interesting 
people, be combined with the present article. 

At a veiy early period after the first settlements on the 
island were formed, this benevolent work was undertaken. 
In 1653, the Rev. Mr. Leverich, who was one of the first 
purchasers of Oysterbay, and had been studying the Indian 
language in Massachusetts, was employed by the " Society 
for propagating the gospel in New England" as a teacher of 
the natives on the island. In this employment he spent five 
years. How much of his time was devoted to the Indians, 
or how extensively his services were rendered, there are no 
means of ascertaining. 

After the settlement of East Hampton, the Rev. Mr. James, 



104 THE ABORIGINES OF THE ISLAND. [PAXT !» 

the first minister of that town, moved with compassion for the 
ignorance and moral darkness of the Indians, commenced the 
study of their language, with the design of instructing thera 
in the way of life and salvation. It appears that he was em- 
ployed by the same Society about the year 1660, but how 
long he continued in the work, cannot be determined. His 
exertions were principally, if not exclusively, bestowed upon 
the Montauk tribe. 

There were probably other individuals, in different parts of 
the island, who devoted more or less time to their religious 
instruction. But it is lamentable to record the fact, that for 
about ICO years, these benevolent exertions appear to have 
been made in vain. The Indians, almost with one consent, 
adhered to the religious opinions and the senseless rites of 
their ancestors ; and exhibited no inclination to receive the 
blessed gospel. It seems probable, that after the experiment 
of a few years had been made, the work was abandoned, as 
altogether hopeless. 

This state of things remained until towards the middle of 
the 18th century. In 1741, the New York Committee of the 
Society already named, engaged Mr. Azariah Horton, (a na- 
tive of Southold) as a missionary, to be exclusively employed 
in the instruction of the Long Island Indians; and for this 
purpose, he was ordained to the work of the gospel ministry, 
in that year, by the Presbytery of New York. 

Although human instrumentality, at all times and under all 
circumstances, is dependent, for its efficacy, on the divine 
blessing, it will not be out of place to remark, that both the 
character of the missionary, and the time of his appointment, 
were peculiarly favourable to the results that were realized. 
Though the good man has long since gone down to the grave, 
and no memoir or extended biographical sketch of his life 
perpetuates his memory, and no memorial remains but the 
simple and concise record of his daily labours, and some of 
their obvious results, he was manifestly a humble, laborious, 
and self denying servant of the cross, His charge extended 
along the whole southern shore of the island, for more than 
lOl) miles, upon which the remnants of these once numerous 
tribes, at that time reduced to " 400, old and young," were 
scattered. And here, you trace him, four or five times a year, 
from Montauk to Rockaway, the two extreme points, back and 
forth, subsisting upon Indian fare — sleeping in their frail 
wigwams — teaching them to read the word of God, and 
almost daily preaching to them the gospel of Christ* 



SECT. 10.] THE ABORIGINES OF THE ISLAND. 105 

The time of his appointment was that notable period, at 
which it had pleased the King of Zion, to bestow such a copious 
and extensive effusion of his Spirit, on the American churches. 
And while thousands, in every part of the land, were raising 
the anxious enquiry, " What must we do to be saved V He, 
who is " no respecter of persons," saw fit to send his devoted 
servant, to these benighted savages, with the same message of 
salvation, and accompanied it with " the dispensation of the 
same Spirit." And while the sceptic is always ready to 
raise the cry of fanaticism and priestcraft, against the work of 
God, in the conversion of souls, the devout christian, and even 
the candid rationalist, can scarcely fail to acknowledge the 
general awakening of that day, notwithstanding the human 
infirmities, with which it was, in some cases, disfigured, as a 
supernatural operation, when he sees these ignorant and 
degraded savages, who for 100 years had strenuously rejected 
a proffered gospel, now melted down, and brought to bow with 
contrite hearts to the message of grace. And let it be par- 
ticularly noticed, that these effects were produced, not by the 
powerful appeals of an eloquent preacher, addressed to the 
passions and sympathies of his hearers, but often by the slow* 
communication of divine truth, through the imperfect me« 
dium of a dull interpreter. And besides this, these astonishing 
results were realized, not on a few special occasions, and in 
one or two populous neighbourhoods, but, during several suc- 
cessive years, and throughout the length of the island. 

A few extracts only can be given from the journal of this 
indefatigable missionary, to illustrate these remarks. 

" Rockaway, June 6th, 1742; preached. My hearers attended with 
seriousness, and appeared somewhat thoughtful. 

" Islip, June 8th ; preached. Two awakened to a considerable sense 
of their sinful dangerous condition ; others concerned before, brought 
under fresh and strong impressions of their guilty state, of their need of 
Christ, and to earnest inquiries after an interest in him, and, in general, 
they are very devout and attentive. 

" Moriches, June 13th ; preached. Two Indians awakened, and seve- 
ral others under distressing concern of mind, &c. Most of these are 
endeavouring to learn to read. 

'" Shinnecock, June 15th. Preached ; and surely the Lord was in this 
place ; his power made known, in bringing some that were concerned 
before, under distressing apprehensions of the wrath of God, of their need 
of Christ and his salvation, and in refreshing some that were hopefully his 
own children, by the refreshing influences of his blessed Spirit. 

" —June 16th. Spent the forenoon in conversing with the In- 
dians. P. M. preached. Many were under distressing concern, filled 
with anxiety of mind, and inquired, ' What they must do to be saved.' 
Some were abundantly refreshed with joy and comfort in the Holy Ghost. 

5* 



106 THE ABORIGINES OF THE ISLAND. [PART 1, 

what adoring thoughts of free grace and redeeming love ! O what 
wonder did they express at Christ's stooping to them, poor undeserving 
creatures ! The Lord was with us of a truth. 

" ' June 18th. Arrived at Montauk. The Indians gladly re- 
ceived me. Many among them are now Bick. 

" June 19th. Spent most of the day in visiting, from wigwam to wig- 
wam, both the sick and well. 

" June 20th, preached, &c. 

" June 23d. Spent most of the day in visiting. Conversed with an 
Indian and three squaws, who, by the accounts they gave, and their con- 
duct and conversation consequent thereupon, are hopefully converted. 
And these conversions were wrought, according to their accounts, while 

1 was upon my journey to the western Indians upon Long Island. 

44 July 5th. This day conversed with an Indian girl, by an interpreter, 
and I hope she has had a saving change wrought in her heart. This, 
while I was gone westward. 

44 July 8th. Expounded : and at this exercise an Indian, (who was hope- 
fully converted while I was westward) owned the covenant and was bap- 
tized, together with four of his children. 

44 July 15th. Preached. Former concern continued. Two squaws owned 
the covenant, and were baptized. These were hopefully converted last 
October. 

44 Shinnecock, July 22nd. This evening, gave my dear people some cau- 
tions and warnings against some irregularities, that abound in our land 
at this day ; and by which their best interest has been much endangered. 
After this, preached. Some had their distress renewed and increased. 
Others appeared to be sweetly composed, and to find, by fresh experience, 
the ways of religion to be ways of pleasantness, and her paths peace. 

44 Moriches, Aug. 15th. Preached. Some were deeply distressed. 
Some that attended came 12 miles, and others 20, on purpose to hear the 
word preached. 

44 Montauk, Aug. 22. Preached. This day the power of the Lord was 
evidently displayed in strengthening the convictions of some, and height- 
ening the joy of others. It may be noted, that seven squaws came hither 
from Shinnecock, on purpose to attend public worship, and that one of the 
number was hopefully converted in the time of service, and another in 
the evening. 

44 Shinnecock, Sept. 10th. Visited and preached. The outpourings of 
the Spirit still evident and conspicuous among my dear people, &c. 

44 Islip, October 6th. Spent the evening in giving instructions and cau- 
tions to some of my Indian people gathered together for that purpose. 
They were greedy to hear, and very thankful to me for my instructions. 
It may be noted, these Indians have frequently gone (since I left them 
last summer) 16 miles to attend public worship. 

44 Rockaway, Oct. 10th. Preached. The Indians attended with serious- 
ness, and some appeared to be under some awakenings about their eternal 
safety. 

44 lslip, Oct. 24th. Preached. Some deeply concerned. 

44 Mastick, Oct. 211th. Preached. They appeared serious and thoughtful. 

44 Moriches, Oct. 31. Preached. Some deeply concerned. 

44 Montauk, Nov. 11th. Conversed with an old Indian, who appears to 
have found the Lord Jesus by faith. This, while I was gone westward. 

44 Quaog, Dec. 19. Preached. They seriously attended, and some con- 
s' derable movings accompanied the exercises of the day* 



SECT. 10.] THE ABORIGINES OF THE ISLAND. 107 

•' Moriches, Dec. 20th. In the evening preached. Some few were led 
to commend the dear Redeemer, from a view of his special love to their 
souls, and to acknowledge their own meanness and unworthiness. Some 
were deeply distressed, &c. At this exercise one squaw hopefully con- 
verted. 

" Quaog, Dec. 24. Visited. In the evening preached, attended with en- 
couraging appearances. It may be noted, that 9 or 10 Indians came to 
the meeting 12 miles, in a wet, stormy time. 

" , Dec. 26th. Preached. Some favoured with lively views of the 

glory of Christ, and their mouths filled with praises to him. Others deeply 
distressed. 

" Montauk, Jan. 2, 1742-3. Preached. Many of God's children fa- 
voured with almost overcoming discoveries of divine love, which raised 
their affections on high, and filled their souls with holy transport and 
sweet nourishment, and made them with pleasure speak forth the praises 
of their dear Redeemer ; and these discoveries were attended with a deep 
and abasing sense of their own unworthiness ; and led them to pity their 
poor Christless friends. 

" Shinnccock, Jan. 30th. Visited. 

" Quaog, Jan. 23rd. Preached. Some were, as I trust, refreshed from 
on high, and their mouths filled with praises to the blessed and glorious 
Jesus. Some others were deeply distressed in mind, and brought to inquire 
with solicitude after an interest in the Lord Jesus Christ. 

" Montauk, Feb. 5th. Conversed with one squaw, and I can't but hope 
she has received a saving change, and that, a few days ago. 

" Moriches, March 2nd. Preached. They attended with seriousness, 
and appeared forward to receive instruction. 

" Islip, March 6"th. Some considerably affected with a sense of their un- 
done estate. 

" Rockaway, April 14th. Preached. Some few appeared somewhat 
attentive and thoughtful. 

" Islip, April 17th. Preached. Some were made sensible of their sins in 
some measure, &c. 

" Shinnecock, April 20th. Returned to the Indians there, and they ap. 
peared much rejoiced, &c. 

Montauk, April 24th. Preached. Some were enlivened and re- 
freshed, &c. 

" Rockaway, May 8th. Preached. There was a forwardness in some 
to receive instruction. I cannot well omit observing, the great necessity 
of one to instruct, caution, and exhort them in a more steady and unin- 
terrupted method than I possibly can, seeing they, with the Indians of 
many other places upon Long Island, live at so great a distance from each 
other, it being at least 100 miles from the two extremes. 

" Smithfield, May 18th. After a long and tedious journey arrived at 
Smithfield upon Delaware, &c. 

" Moriches, June 2nd. Preached. Some were distressed under a sense 
of sin. The Indians hereabouts are much reformed, and very ready to re- 
ceive instruction. 

'■ Shinnecock, Sept. 8th. This day was observed as a day of public 
thanksgiving. The exercise was attended with seriousness and decency. 
A beautiful sight to behold, those gathered together to worship and bless 
God, who before gospel light shone upon them, were wont to meet to sing 
and dance, carouse and give loose to vain mirth and jollity. 

" Quaog, Dec. 10th. This morning, I had the pleasure to hear three In- 



108 THE ABORIGINES OF THE ISLAND, [PART I, 

dian children repeat a considerable part of the Assembly's catechism, and 
to hear each of them spell in ihe Psalter, and the two eldest repeat the 
two first of David's psalms. Their mother can read well, and is painful, 
after her capacity, in giving instructions to her children. (This woman 
was afterwards employed as a school-teacher at Montauk.) 

44 Dec. 13th. After divine service, I told my people the news I had re- 
ceived from Scotland, viz., of my continuance among the Long Island In- 
dians. They universally manifested what great joy and satisfaction it 
was to them, and they explicitly declared their thanks to the great God, 
for his kind Providence herein. 

44 Montauk, Dec. 25th. Preached. Some of the children of God brought 
to a deeper acquaintance of their own hearts, and made to mourn bitterly 
under a sense of their indwelling corruptions. Towards evening, in- 
Btructed 4 or 5 squaws, who came to visit me, about the great business of 
salvation, 

44 Quaog, Jan. 8th, 1 743-4. Preached. Some had their concern re- 
vived and increased. The exercises of this day were attended with much 
of the divine power. 

44 Moriches, Jan. 23. Preached in the evening. Visibly attended with 
divine power. A great part of my hearers this evening came from Quaog, 
which is 12 miles, and the Indians of this place go frequently thereto 
meeting. 

44 Montauk, Jan. 29. Preached. Some few refreshed. 

41 Quaog, Feb. 5. Preached. Some distressed ; others sweetly refreshed." 

In making these extracts, the object has not been to furnish 
a few isolated passages of the most remarkable character, but 
to exhibit several deeply interesting facts connected with the 
work of grace, among this ignorant and benighted race ; such 
as the following. 

1. The incessant and extended labours of this devoted and 
self-denying servant of the cross. He appears to have been 
untiring in his efforts for the salvation of perishing souls. 
While the principal settlements of the Indians were at Mon- 
tauk and Shinnecock, and therefore most of his time was 
spent there, still we find him travelling, several times a year, 
from one end of the island to the other, to proclaim the mes- 
sage of salvation. And then, the extreme caution with which 
he expresses his hopes of the favorable appearances among 
them, warrants the highest confidence in the truth of his 
statements. 

2. While the work of grace was manifestly wrought by 
the instrumentality of divine truth, communicated in preach- 
ing and conversation, these hopeful conversions, in numerous 
instances, did not take place under the excitement of public 
meetings, but even in the absence of the missionary to other 
parts of his charge ; plainly showing that it was the work of 
God and not of man. 

3. The long continumce of this blcssei work furnishes 



SECT. 10.] THE ABORIGINES OP THE ISLAND. 109 

another evidence of its genuineness. It was not the hot-bed 
production of a few days or weeks, originating in special 
efforts to produce a public excitement, and then subsiding 
into a death-like coldness, as soon as those exercises were 
suspended. But it commenced and was continued for months 
and even years, by the occasional labours of a single mission- 
ary, travelling back and forth, over a region more than one 
hundred miles in extent. And yet, in every part of this vast 
field, the same moral phenomena were exhibited, to a greater 
or less extent, throughout this protracted season of mercy. 
And when we take into consideration the numerous disadvan- 
tages under which these labours were performed, it seems that 
infidelity itself, if associated with a small degree of candour, 
must be constrained to acknowledge, that such results could 
not be ascribed to mere human ingenuity or efficiency. 

Mr. Horton remained in the service of the L. I. Indians, 
eleven years. During the first three years, which his printed 
journal covers, he appears to have confined himself constantly 
to his field of labour. In May, 1742, he attended the Synod 
in Philadelphia, and in the year following, he spent a fortnight 
in visiting the Indians on the Delaware river, for the purpose 
of preparing the way for the establishment of a mission among 
them. With these short intervals, not of relaxation, but of a 
mere change of labour, he pursued his solitary work, uncheer- 
ed by the presence of a single fellow-labourer, except that in 
February 1742, David Bramard, who was then preparing to 
set out on a similar embassy of mercy, paid him a short visit, 
and preached a single discourse to his ' poor dear people.' In 
1752, Mr. Horton, from what cause is not known, left the 
island, and was settled, that same year, at South Hanover or 
Bottle hill, N. J., a settlement that had been formed in part 
by L. I. people. Here a church had been recently formed, 
of which Mr. II. was the first pastor. Here he spent his days 
and laid his bones. His tomb-stone bears the following sim- 
ple inscription : — 

" In memory of the Rev. Azariah Horton, for 25 years 
pastor of this church. Died March 27th, 1777, aged 62 
years." 

Mr. H. was evidently a very respectable minister in his 
day. He was one of the most constant attendants on the 
judicatories of the church — was seldom absent from the meet- 
ings of the Synod, and was frequently appointed on its com- 
mission. And yet his memory has well nigh passed away. 
It is still true, that " the righteous perish, and no man layeth 



110 THE ABORIGINES OF THE ISLAND. [FART 1, 

it to heart," even while men of far less excellence and useful- 
ness, obtain a temporary renown, by a splendid monument, or 
a flattering memoir. But the name of Azariah Horton, 
though little else of the good man remains, is worthy to live 
in the history of Indian missions, and should never perish 
from the annals of Long Island. 

In 1753, which was the year immediately after Mr. 
Horton left the Island, Sampson Occum was sent as a teacher 
to the Indians. He was a native of the Mohegan tribe in 
Connecticut, the remnants of which still exist on the west 
side of the Thames, between New London and Norwich. 
He was born in 1723, and was hopefully converted in 1741, 
being then in his 18th year. Having a strong desire to 
qualify himself for usefulness, he sought, and in December, 
1743, obtained admission into the school of the Rev. Eleazar 
Wheelock, of Lebanon. Here he remained four or five 
years. His docility and progress were such as not only to 
give great satisfaction to his instructer, but are supposed 
to have suggested and encouraged the establishment of 
** Moor's Charity School," which Mr. Wheelock soon after- 
wards founded, for the special instruction of the natives, and, 
in which Brandt and others were subsequently educated. 
This school, it is well known became the basis of Dartmouth 
College in New Hampshire. This, therefore, may be regard- 
ed as one of those events, which are frequently developed 
in the scheme of Providence, in which great results flow 
apparently from the most insignificant causes. 

When Occum was first sent to Long Island, it was simply 
in the capacity of a teacher : and he devoted himself, with 
great assiduity, to the instruction of both children and adults. 
But being afterwards licensed by the Windham Association, 
he became a stated preacher of the gospel among them. On 
the 30th of Aug. 1759, he was ordained by the Presbytery of 
Suffolk, and though he was afterwards variously employed in 
New England and elsewhere, he retained his connexion 
with the Presbyterian church, to the day of his death. 

In 1765, Occum was sent by Mr. Wheelock, in company 
with the Rev. Mr. Whitaker, of Norwich, to England to pro- 
cure funds for " Moor's Charity School." He was the first 
Indian preacher that ever appeared in Great Britain, and na- 
turally awakened great curiosity, and excited much attention ; 
not only in the country towns, but even at the capital. He 
travelled through England into Scotland; and from Feb. 16th, 
3766, to July 22nd, 1767, he preached between 3 and 400 



SECT. 10.] THE ABORIGINES OF THE ISLAND. Ill 

times. The houses in which he officiated were thronged, and 
he preached to great acceptance. 

He was eminently successful in regard to the object of his 
mission. In England he collected about £7,000 ($33,000,) 
and in Scotland between 2 and £3,000 ; (more than $40,000 
in all,) which was invested in British funds, for the benevolent 
object in view. The king himself subscribed £200, and Lord 
Dartmouth, 50 guineas. 

But the object of his mission seems to have met with little 
favour from the dignitaries of the established church. The 
following is an extract from a letter which he wrote, after his 
return home : — 

" Now I am in my own country, I may freely inform you 
of what I honestly and soberly think of the bishops, lord-bish- 
ops, and arch bishops of England. In my view, they don't 
look like gospel bishops, or ministers of Christ — -1 can't find 
them in the bible. I think they a good deal resemble the anti- 
christian popes. I find the gospel bishops resemble, in some 
good measure, their good Master, and they follow him in the 
example he has left them. They discover meekness and hu- 
mility ; are gentle and kind unto all men — ready to do good 
unto all — they are compassionate and merciful unto the mise- 
rable, and charitable to the poor. — But I did not find the bish- 
ops of England so. Upon my word, if I never spoke the 
truth before, I do now. I waited on a number of bishops and 
represented to them the miserable and wretched situation of 
the poor Indians, who are perishing for lack of spiritual know- 
ledge, and begged their assistance in evangelizing these poor 
heathen. But, if you can believe me, they never gave us one 
single brass farthing. It seems to me that they are very in- 
different whether the poor Indians go to heaven or hell. I 
can't help my thoughts, and I am apt to think, that they don't 
want the Indians to go to heaven with them. But I hope, by 
the grace of God that some of them (the Indians,) will reach 
heaven ; and I believe they will be as welcome there as the 
bishops." 

In 1786 Occum removed with a number of the N. E. in- 
dians, and a few from Long Island, to the Brothertown tract, 
in Oneida county, where he spent the remainder of his days. 
In 1790, he was set off from the presbytery of Suffolk, with 
others, to constitute the presbytery of Albany. He died sud- 
denly July 14th, 1792, in the 69th year of his age. 

The following account of his departure was prepared from 
the recital of his wife. 



112 THE ABORIGINES OF THE ISLAND. [PART 1, 

" For some time he had a presentiment that his death was 
near. As he accustomed himself, in his earlier life, to the 
manufacture of pails and cooper-ware, he still devoted what 
strength he had, when leisure permitted, to the same employ- 
ment. One day he observed to his wife, that he must finish a 
churn soon, that he had commenced, or he might not live to do 
it. He went out to his work, a little distance from the house, 
finished the churn, and started to return. His wife observed 
him crossing a run of water near the house, upon a pole ; look- 
ing towards him again, a few moments after, she saw that he 
had fallen ; and going to him she found him dead." His fu- 
neral was attended by more than 300 Indians, who lamented 
him as a father. The Rev. Mr. Kirkland preached on the oc* 
casion. 

Occum was in many respects a remarkable man. "He 
was judged to be well accomplished and peculiarly turned to 
teach and edify his savage brethren. Nor was he neglected 
by the polished inhabitants of the capital towns. Though for 
many years, he was without polite conversation, and destitute 
of a library, yet he preached to good acceptance in New York, 
Boston, and other populous places. By the best judges he 
was said to be an excellent preacher in his own language ; 
and his influence among the Indians was for a long time 
great." About the time of his leaving Montauk, Dr. Buel 
gives the following account of him : "Asa preacher of the 
gospel, he seems always to have in view the end of the min- 
istry, the glory of God and the salvation of men. His man- 
ner of expression when he preaches to the Indians is vastly 
more natural, free, clear and eloquent, quick and powerful, 
than when he preaches to others. He is the glory of the In- 
dian nation." Dr. Dvvight says, "I heard Mr. Occum twice. 
His discourses, though not proofs of superior talents, were de- 
cent, and his utterance in some degree, eloquent. There is 
satisfactory evidence that he was a man of piety." 

Occum was no contemptible poet, though most of his me- 
trical productions have suffered those mutilations and emen- 
dations, which the superior wisdom and elastic consciences 
of the present age, have felt fully authorized to make, in the 
works of greater men than Occum, both living and dead. 
But waving the morality of this question, it may be remarked 
that if the present enlightened age can produce better poetry, 
especially lyric poetry, than has ever been written before, 
there is perfect liberty for every one to try his hand. But it 
does not seem to be exactly right, to mutilate and still pub- 



SECT. 10.] THE ABORIGINES OF THE ISLAND. 113 

lish under their names, the poetry of men who are in their 
graves, and therefore have not the opportunity to repudiate 
words and sentiments and rhymes that they never perpe- 
trated. Especially is this to be regretted in the case that has 
occasioned these remarks. Every reader wishes to see such 
a man as Occum, just as he was, and his works just as he left 
them ; and this is absolutely necessary to a correct estimate 
of his abilities. 

As fair a specimen of Occum's lyrick poetry as the reader 
can be referred to, is that hymn, which is to be found in many 
collections, beginning " Awak'd by Si?iai's awful sound.'' 1 
The following scrap, written at a later period, though pos- 
sessing less poetic merit, has probably undergone fewer emen- 
dations, and while it breathes the same pious spirit, is not un- 
worthy of preservation. 

11 Give all your time to God 

In prayer and praise, 
Your thoughts from vanity 

To heaven raise. 

" Our work, so great, requires 
Our few short years ; 
Neglected — Heav'n is changed 
To groans and tears. 

" Except we cultivate 
What God has giv'n, 
We shall repent too late 
And miss of heaven." 

The writer is not aware that Occum ever committed any 
of his sermons to the press, except a discourse on Rom. vi. 
23, which he preached at the execution of Moses Paul, an In- 
dian, at Newhaven, Conn., September 2d, 1772, for murder. 
There are many parts of this sermon which do equal honour 
to the head and heart of the preacher ; and it would be well, 
if all who undertake to teach men the way to heaven, were 
as explicit and correct in their directions. In applying his 
subject to the wretched convict, he uses the following lan- 
guage. 

" This is a call — a gracious call to you, poor Moses, under your present 
burdens and distresses. Christ alone has a right to call sinners to himself. 
It would be presumption for a mighty angel to call sinners in this man- 
ner ; and were it possible for you to apply to all God's creatures, they 
would, with one voice, tell you, that it was not in them, to help you. Go 
to all the means of grace, they would prove miserable helps without Christ 
himself. Yea, apply to all the ministers of the gospel ; they would all 
say, that it was not in them, but that they were only indexes, as it were, 



114 THE ABORIGINES OP THE ISLAND. [PART 1, 

to point out to you the Lord Jesus Christ, the only Saviour of sinners. 
Go to all the angels of heaven they would do the same. Yea, go to 
God the Father himself; without Christ, he could not help you : to speak 
after the manner of men, he would also point you to the Lord Jesus 
Christ, and say, " This is my beloved son, in whom I am well pleased." 
Thus you see, poor Moses, there is none in heaven, or on the earth, that 
can help you, but Christ — he alone has power to save and to give life." 

This is but a small portion of his pointed address to the 
criminal. He afterwards brings into view the vicarious suf- 
ferings of Christ, and urges the poor man to rely on his infi- 
nite merits — exhibiting, in the whole, the clearest views of 
the gospel plan of salvation, and the most ardent love for 
perishing souls. 

But it must not be concealed that Occum was in several 
instances, overtaken with the besetting sin of the poor In- 
dians, by which his christian and ministerial character was 
greatly dishonoured, or to use his own penitential language 
to the Presbytery of Suffolk in a letter dated June 9th, 1664, 
in which he acknowledges himself " to have been shamefully 
overtaken with strong drink, by which I have greatly wound- 
ed the cause of God, blemished the pure religion of Jesus 
Christ, blackened my own character, and hurt my own soul." 
But he finally obtained the victory over himself, and lived 
and died, as was believed, a truly good man. 

The results of his labours with the Long Island Indians, 
during 6 years, are thus expressed in his own words. " Many 
of them can read, write, and cypher well , but they are not 
so zealous in religion now, as they were some years ago." 

From the time that Occum left the island, for about 20 
years, the writer has been unable to discover any special la- 
bours bestowed on the Indians, except those of one of their 
own number, by the name of Peter John, who was ** for many 
years, a faithful and successful preacher of the gospel, among 
the native Indians of the island." He was of the Shinnecock 
tribe, and was born at the Hay ground, in the parish of Bridg- 
hampton, somewhere about the years 1712-15. He was hope- 
fully converted, in the great awakening of 1741-4, under the 
preaching of the Rev. Mr. Davenport. By what ecclesiastical 
authority he was commissioned is not known, though it is sup- 
posed, that he was ordained by the separatists of Connecticut. 
He afterwards took up his residence at St. George's Manor, 
where he owned property, on which one of his descendants 
still lives. " Though not learned and eloquent, yet by his 
zeal, piety and perseverance, he gathered small churches at 



SECT. 10.] THE ABORIGINES OP THE ISLAND. 115 

Wading River, Poosepatuck and Islip," to which, with that of 
Canoe Place, he ministered, till after his grandson and suc- 
cessor was brought into the ministry. He lived to the ad- 
vanced age of 88, and died near the commencement of the 
present century, though the precise date has not been ascer- 
tained. His remains lie buried at Poosepatuck. 

The Rev. Paul Cuffee " was the second of seven sons of 
Peter Cuffee, a native Indian of the Shinnecock tribe," and 
grandson, on his mother's side, of the Rev. Peter John. He 
was born in the town of Brookhaven, March 4th, 1757. His 
mother was said to be " an eminently pious woman ; for many 
years a member of the native Indian church at Wading 
River." She being of African descent, Paul was of course 
not of pure aboriginal blood. At an early age, he was inden- 
tured as a servant to Major Frederick Hudson, at Wading 
River, with whom he laboured, principally on the farm, until 
the age of 21 years. " During his minority he is said to have 
been exceedingly thoughtless, and much addicted to the plea- 
sures of the revel and the midnight dance. Possessing a 
great degree of Indian cunning, with a bright and lively ima- 
gination, and being distinguished by his native powers of 
mimickry, he was selected as the favourite leader of a thought- 
less band." 

But though thus eagerly bent on his career of folly, the 
Lord had marked him as " a chosen vessel, to bear his name 
before the gentiles" — the remnants of his own once pagan 
tribes. During a season of religious awakening, in the year 
1778-9, being the last year of his minority, his attention was 
called up to the great concern of salvation. His convictions 
were deep and pungent, and finally became " so intense and 
overwhelming, that like Saul of Tarsus, he fell to the ground, 
and for a time his entire physical strength was prostrated. 
But he soon obtained a delightful relief, in an entire surrender 
of his heart to the Lord Jesus, and an unreserved consecra- 
tion to his service." 

From the first moment of his deliverance from the load of 
conscious guilt, he appears to have been inspired with an ar- 
dent desire to labour, for the advancement of the divine glory, 
and the salvation of his fellow men. Though possessed of a 
very limited education, he early commenced preaching ; upon 
what authority — whether by the approbation of the church at 
Wading River, of which he had been admitted as a member, 
or by a license of a higher ecclesiastical body, is not known. 
u Soon after completing his term of service, he removed from 



116 THE ABORIGINES OF THE ISLAND. [PART 1, 

Wading River to Moriches, where he remained about two 
years ;" and thence, to Poosepatuck, where in 1790, he was 
" ordained to the work of the ministry by a council of minis- 
ters from the Connecticut Convention." He afterwards re- 
moved to Canoe place, which continued to be his residence till 
his death. 

On the 17th of Oct. 1792, he was admitted a member of 
the " Strict Congregational Convention of Long Island," 
which had been organized, about a year before, in fellowship 
with the "Strict Congregational Convention of Connecticut." 

In 1798, he received a commission, from the " New York 
Missionary Society," to labour with the remnants of the Long 
Island Indians, in whose employ he continued till his death, 
and annually received a liberal compensation. The principal 
field of his labour was Montauk and Canoe Place ; though 
he occasionally visited Poosepatuck and Islip, where there 
were then a few scattered remnants of the native tribes. 

" In the endowments of his mind, for the station he filled, 
nature seems to have been lavish of her gifts. His memory 
was retentive — his imagination lively and fruitful — his voice 
was musical, almost to a charm — his manner graceful, com- 
bining modesty and humility ; and when the powers of his 
soul were a little wrought up, with the fire of divine love, his 
countenance would seem to shine, with more than mortal 
brightness. In his preaching, he dwelt much on the promi- 
nent doctrines of the gospel, and the love of a crucified Re- 
deemer. Multitudes flocked to hear his native eloquence, and 
hung with intense delight, upon his lips ; indeed.it is a matter 
of doubt, whether any minister, of that period, would have 
commanded a more numerous and attentive congregation. 
He was universally loved and respected. Churches and min- 
isters, of other denominations, welcomed him to their pulpits, 
and sought an opportunity of listening to his lovely and affect- 
ing discourse." 

Although the above description bears evident marks, of the 
partiality of friendship, and while much of the interest exhi- 
bited in such cases, is to be ascribed to gratified curiosity, the 
writer can testify that there is much truth in this delineation. 
Having enjoyed a personal acquaintance with Paul, for a few 
years, and had the privilege, in two or three instances, of 
hearing his public performances, he can bear witness that he 
was an interesting and affectionate preacher. Though he 
aimed at no elegance of diction, and frequently committed 
grammatical inaccuracies, these were soon lost sight of, in the 



SECT. 10.] THE ABORIGINES OF THE ISLAND. 117 

ardour of his piety, and the pathos of his appeals. But the 
most amiable and distinguishing trait of Paul's character, 
both in the pulpit and out of it, was the unaffected humility 
of his heart. Not only was his spirit imbued with it, but he 
appeared at all times, clothed therewith, as with a garment. 
Naturally modest, and graciously lowly in heart, he never 
aspired to high things, but always condescended to men of 
low estate ; contented, nay, gratified to be the humble, instru- 
ment of promoting the glory of God, and the salvation of his 
fellow men. 

He died as he lived under the smiles of his Saviour. 
Gradually, though rapidly wasted away by the consumption, 
he enjoyed his reason and the light of God's countenance to 
the end. Having given direction about the manner and place 
of his interment ; selected a text [2. Tim. iv. 7, 8] for his 
funeral discourse, and taken a fond adieu of his family and 
friends, exhorting them all to " make Christ their friend," he 
calmly fell asleep. 

About one mile west of Canoe Place, on the angle formed 
by the junction of the north and south roads, where the Indian 
Church formerly stood, among the bushes and trees, which 
are now considerably grown up, forming a part of the unbro- 
ken forest, may be discerned a small enclosure of paling just 
large enough to encompass a single grave ; while other depo- 
sitories of the dead are scattered around. Within that enclo- 
sure, lie the mortal remains of the last native preacher to the 
Long Island Indians. A plain head stone marks the spot, and 
bears the following inscription : — 

ERECTED 

BY 
THE NEW- YORK MISSIONARY SOCIETY, 

£ri J&emorg of 
The Rev. PAUL CUFFEE, 

An Indian of the Shinnecock Tribe. 

Who was employed by that Society, 
for the last thirteen years of his life, on the 

Eastern part of Long Island, 
where he laboured with fidelity and success. 

Humble, pious and indefatigable, 

in testifying the gospel of the grace of God, 

he finished his course with joy, 

on the 

7th of March, 18 12, 

aged 55 years and three days. 



118 THE ABORIGINES OF THE ISLAND. [PART 1, 

Since the death of Paul, the Indians hare been indebted 
for religious instruction, almost exclusively to the L. I. Con- 
vention, which has continued to exercise an oversight over 
them ; and afford such assistance as was within their power. 
On the 12th of Oct. 1827, the Convention ordained the Rev. 
William Benjamin, as pastor of the church at Canoe Place ; 
and he continues to labour there half the time. This church 
and that at Poosepatuck are the only ones that remain. Those 
formerly existing at Segatague and the Wading River are 
entirely extinct ; and at the latter place, not a single indi- 
vidual of aboriginal descent is to be found. 

The following summary embraces all the remnants of this 
interesting people, in their present mingled state. 

Montauk, 3 families, consisting of 8 or 9 individuals. 

Shinnecock, 30 " " 140 

Poosepatuck, 6 " " 30 

Before concluding this sketch, it is proper to notice a reli- 
gious anniversary under the name of the " June Meeting" 
which has long been maintained by this interesting people, 
and is kept up to the present time. Its origin is not exactly 
known, but its design is entirely of a social and religious na- 
ture. It is a holy convocation of all the remnants of the 
tribes, and the coloured people connected with them, on the 
first or second sabbath in June, for the purpose of religious 
worship. In former days, a delegation from New England 
was usually present ; but of late years, it has been confined to 
the residents of the Island. The place of meeting is Poose- 
patuck, as being the most central ; though this little church is 
now reduced to a mere remnant. The whole day is spent in 
the exercises of religious worship, in connexion with which, 
the Lord's Supper is celebrated ; and could the assemblage 
be confined exclusively to those for whose benefit it was in- 
stituted, or even those who take delight in God's worship, it 
would still be a pleasant and profitable occasion. But it has, 
of late years, become the resort of hundreds of giddy and 
thoughtless youth of both sexes, who assemble from all parts 
of the island, within 20 or 30 miles, for the mere purpose of 
diversion and dissipation ; making it a scene of tumult and 
confusion ; while others of the white population, to their burn- 
ing disgrace, from the mere lust of filthy lucre, embrace the 
occasion as an opportunity for merchandize and worldly gain. 
The whole country, for miles around, exhibits all the confusion 
of a general training ; and the holy sabbath, from morning to 
night, is polluted with the most bare faced profanations. 



SECT. 10.J THE ABORIGINES OP THE ISLAND, 119 

These facts are stated, not on the ground of vague rumour, 
but from the evidence of sense at the last anniversary. And 
it will be observed, that the disgrace of these unhallowed pro- 
ceedings, belongs exclusively to the white population. The 
conduct of the coloured people is marked with singular pro- 
priety and circumspection. Those who come from a distance, 
perform their journey on the preceding day, and return home 
in the succeeding week. Thus they enjoy the privilege of so- 
cial intercourse with friends and relatives, besides securing the 
rest and quiet of the holy sabbath. And but for the annoyance 
of those who take no interest in the religious exercises of 
the meeting, it would be both a pleasant and profitable season 
to their souls. 

In review of all the labours bestowed upon this interesting 
people, during the last hundred years, it is obvious to remark, 
that a goodly number of them have doubtless become the 
humble followers of the meek and lowly Jesus. And even 
now, among their scanty remnants, there is a precious seed, 
who love and serve the Lord. At the same time it must be 
confessed, that no radical change has been produced on the 
habits and character of the mass. It is remarked by the 
Chronicler of Easthampton, that " From their teachers some 
of them learned to read and write, but their progress in know- 
ledge neither meliorated their condition, nor diverted them of 
their natural improvidence. Their thirst for the liquid fire of 
the white man continued, with few exceptions, as ardent ; and 
the domestic comforts of the hearth were but little enhanced, 
beyond the savage state ; notwithstanding all the advantages 
of intercourse, with a moral and religious people, disposed to 
treat them with sobriety and kindness." And it may be 
added, that by mingling with the African race, whose condi- 
tion in this country is even more depressed than their own, 
they have degraded instead of elevating their condition, in the 
eyes of the community, and stamped an infrangible seal upon 
their condition. In the course of a few more generations, if 
they shall have any survivors, all the characteristics of their 
aboriginal ancestry will be swallowed up and lost, in the pre- 
dominant features of a less noble, but equally injured and des- 
pised race. 

And here, the writer regrets the necessity of recording a 
fact, by no means honourable to the inhabitants of the towns, 
in which these aboriginal remnants are located. For many 
years past, there has been a growing jealousy, of their claim 
to the lands reserved by their ancestors ; and an evident 
desire to see it extinguished. And it is common to hear the 



120 THE ABORIGINES OF THE ISLAND. [PART 1, 

assertion, that " these mongrel people have no more right to 
these lands, than the natives of Africa.'' It must indeed be 
confessed, that if the Indian title was based on entire purity 
of Aboriginal blood, it is already extinct, for the want of a 
claimant. But it is presumed, that no such condition can be 
found in any instrument of reservation. The circumstance, 
therefore, that the Indians have seen fit to ally themselves in 
marriage, with those of a darker hue, can furnish no just ex- 
cuse for disfranchising and disinheriting their legitimate pos- 
terity. It is therefore to be most earnestly hoped, that the 
descendants of men, who could boast, that they never wrong- 
fully took a foot of land from the Indians, will not dishonour 
their ancestors, by unjustly depriving the small remnants of 
the natives of their lawful inheritance. 

The following graphic, but gloomy description of the pre- 
sent state of the peninsula of Montauk, by the same writer, 
who has been frequently quoted on this topic, will form an ap- 
propriate close of this imperfect sketch of Aboriginal history. 

" The place is almost one extended region of solitude. Over its ele- 
vated surface, the eye seldom rests upon other than natural objects. The 
large forest, which once covered its face, has fallen before the axe of the 
husbandman, and the winds of heaven : and the vision has no interrup- 
tion, over the greater part of the land, to an illimitable expanse of ocean. 
The extensive swamps, where the warrior waited in ambush the passing 
of his foe, have most of them become dry, and free of wood. The 
grounds, where often the battle raged, in the strife for life and victory, are 
noted only by the many arrow-heads, which the tread of animals and the 
crumbling of the soil expose to view. The lofty and symmetrical stature 
of the red man no longer crowns the cliffs and headlands of the 
shore ; but over the summits, the sea-bird and the eagle may still be seen 
hovering in the air, or soaring aloft, in beautiful gyrations. All the 
magnificent features of nature still present, to the visiter, the same su- 
blime and majestic appearance, which they presented to former successive 
generations ; but the red man sleeps in his grave. The band of sparkling 
foam, produced by the waves of the ocean, rolling and dashing on the 
shore in endless succession, still embraces the land ; but he, who whilom 
watched the pulsations of the mighty deep, is no longer there. On the 
bold headland of Wamponomon, where, in the clear dark night, the sig. 
nal fire was kindled, to give notice to the friendly tribes, on the opposite 
shore, of the approach of some mutual foe, or of readiness to proceed 
upon some enterprise of danger or revenge, the centinel no longer holds 
his midnight vigil. The calm moon, whose bright and soft light was 
reflected from the undulating surface of the gently rising wave, where the 
canoe was launched upon its bosom for distant adventure, still sheds its 
monthly brightness upon the troubled sea, but it no longer guides the bark 
of the red man. The agitations and tumults, that gave activity and 
excitement to savage life, and filled the forest with the echoes of the war. 
hoop, are buried in the grave of the warrior ; and the almost painful 
stillness of the region is disturbed, only, by the everlasting murmur of the 



SECT. 11.] 



STATISTICAL TABLES. 



121 



SECTION XL 

STATISTICAL TABLES. 

I. Population at different periods. 



AD. 

King's, 

Queen's 

Suffolk, 

Total, 



1731 1771 1 1786 



2,150 

7,895 
7,675 



3,623 3,936 

10,98013,03-4 
13,123,13,79b 



17,820l27,731 |30,86S 



1790 i 1S00 j 1810 j 1820 



4,495 5,740 8,30311,18" 
16,014 16,933 19,336 20,51< 
16,440 19,444 21,113 24,27:- 



J6,949 42,167 4^,75255,96; 



1820 1840 



20,535 47,613 
22,460 30,324 
26,780 32.469 



1845 



68,691 
31,849 
34,579 



39,775 110,406 135,119 



Note 1. It appears from the preceding table that the aggre- 
gate population of the island has been nearly doubled in 
the last period of 15 years. But the principal increase has 
been in the county of King's, which, chiefly by the rapid 
growth of the city of Brooklyn, has more than tripled its popu- 
lation in the same time. 

2. The present population of the island exceeds that of 3 
several States of the Federal Union. In 1840, the entire 
population of Rhode Island was 108,830 ; — Delaware, 78,085: 
— and Arkansas, 97,574. 



II. Classification by the Census of 1840, according to occupw 
tion, <$fc. 



King's, 

Queen's, 

Suffolk, 

Total, 


In Agri- 
culture. 

Commerce 


& c ■ 

-2 at <U 
C « as 

S5 H 


_5 




c > z 
o « rt 


a> a 
T3 5 


o o 
a 


13 

5 


3,234 1,770 
6,138 263 
7,959 37b 


6,160 
1,612 
1,727 


1,443 

202 

1,736 


375 ! 9,732 
143 7,330 

203 ■ 7,724 


19 
7 

10 


36 
35 
32 


18 
11 
11 


17,331 2,409 


9,499 


3,331i 726 24,836 


36 


103 j 40 



Note. — In the preceding table, the aggregate number, be- 
tween the ages of 5 and 15, includes both the white and col- 
oured children. But as these different classes of our popula- 
tion are not classified by the U. S. Census, at the same ages, 

6 



122 



STATISTICAL TABLEl, 



[PART 1 



the number of coloured children who are between those ages 
has been ascertained by calculation, and is believed to be 
essentially correct. 



III. Aggregate population of different ages, showing the pro- 
portion between the sexes, at three different periods of human 
life : of both the white and coloured. 



King's, 

Queen's, 

Suffolk, 

Total, 



White Population. 
Males. ! Females. 



8 




i 


8 


© 

TSCB 


8 


s 


8? 




0) 


S3 S 


$ 


U> 


o 


£ 




a 


15,324 6,069 


524 16,666 


5,470 711 


9,492 3,613 


720 


8,560 


3,614 816 


10,251 4,176 


968 


9,751 4,1211,025 












*4 -r- 



35,067,13,853 2,212 32,977 13,205 2,555 



Coloured Population. 
Males. Females. 



- 


^^ ! 




SI'S 


& 


" 


641 


624 


977 


668 


710 


364 


2,328 


1,656 



a 



673 681 
9S6 685 
540 375 

2,14S| 1,741 



Note 1. The well-known law, in regard to the excess of the 
male sex over the female, is observable here. But it will be 
noticed, that while this holds good in th«- aggregate, it does 
not apply to every period of life. After the age of 60 years, 
the excess is on the other side. In the coloured population 
the change takes place at an earlier period. 

2. A notable exception to the above law, will generally be 
found in the dense population of cities. Thus, in the above 
schedule, King's County contains 1,342 females more than 
males, wider 30 years of age. This excess is in the city of 
Brooklyn, which by the Census of 1845, contains in the ag- 
gregate 2,762 females above the number of males. The same 
will be found in almost every city in the country. 

3. By the Census of 1840, there were 15 males and 18 
females on Long Island, over 90 and under 100 years, and 2 
coloured females over 100. 

o qa The t0tal coloured population, in 1840, was, in King's 
2,843 ;— Queen's 3,509 ;— Suffolk 2,107,— total S,529. 



SECT. 11.] 



STATISTICAL TABLES. 



123 



IV. Comparative population of Long Island anal the City of 
New York, the State and the United States at different 



1678 


Population 
of L. Island. 


City of State of 
New York.l New York. 


United States. 




3,430 






1686 




6,000 






1697 




4,302 






1731 


17,800 


8,628 


50,291 




1756 




13,040 






1771 


27,731 


21,163 


163,338 




1786 


30,863 


23,614 


238,896 




1790 


36,949 


33,131 


340,130 


3,750,000 


1800 


42,167 


60,489 


586,141 


5,305,666 


1810 


48,752 


96,373 


959,049 


7,230,514 


1820 


56.978 


123,706 


1,372,812 


9,654,415 


1830 


69,595 


207,021 


1,923,522 


12,836,426 


1840 


110,406 


312,710 


2,428,921 


17,068,666 


1845 


135,119 


366,785 







Hence it appears, 

1. That a little more than 100 years ago, the population of 
Long Island was more than double of the city of New York, 
and more than one-third of the whole province : and it is about 
60 years ago, that the population of the city became equal to 
that of the island. 

2. At the commencement of the present century, the popu- 
lation of the Island was to that of the State as 1 to 14. In 
1840 it was as 1 to 22. 

«3. It seems that there was a remarkable decrease in the 
population of New York from 1686 to 1097. 



V. The number of domestic animals, with some productions of 
their growth or labour ; from the Census of 1840. 



King's, 

Queen's, 

Suffolk, 

Total, 


Horses and 
Mules. 


Neat 
cattle. 


Sheep. 


Swine. 


lb. of 
Wool. 


Cords of 
Wood. 


3,019 
6,517 
5,473 


5,978 
14,181 
22,236 


48 
26,477 
46,751 


8,360 
21,518 

20,534 


150 
43,200 

84,008 


9,787 
66,023 


1.5,009 


42,395 


73,276 


50,412 


127,358 


75,810 



Note. The annual exportation of wood has probably nearly 
equalled the above amount for many years. 



124 



STATISTICAL TABLES. 



[PART 1. 



VI. Agricultural Productions. 



King's, 

Queen's, 

Suffolk, 

Total, 


Wheat. 


Rye. 


Indian 
Corn. 


Oats. 


Buck- 
wheat. 


Potatoes 


Hay. 

5,437 
31,437 
42,e91 


24,964 

97,741 

105,778 


8,537 
105,399 
79,023 


81,824 72,460 
336,-101 348,447 
355,314 258,218 


3,933 
64,027 
42,707 


95,805 
214,121 
170,236 


223,483 


192,959 


773,539 679,125 1 110,667 


480,162 


79,765 



Note. A few years ago Long Island did not produce suffi- 
cient bread-stuffs to supply its own population. Now there is 
a considerable surplus annually exported. The value of all its 
exports has been estimated at $200,000 annually. 



VII. The following additional items are derived from the State 
Census of 1845, which has been recently completed. 







Suffolk County, 


Towns. 




9 




"3 a 
.» 5 




a 

o 

S 




a 
.2 








^*d 


a u 




fad 


(H 






73 


s 


"5 * 


"o ~ 


3 


o 


o 






!§3 


h 


PP 


O 


U 


U 


< 


0. 


Southold, 


2,102 


2,089 


1,062 


53 


12 


13 


1 


9 


Riverhead, 


1,186 


1,187 


682 


56 


8 


13 


1 


5 


Shelter Island, 


208 


238 


106 


12 


1 


1 


1 





Easthampton, 


1,106 


1,049 


430 


215 


3 


3 





5 


Southampton, 


,3,922 


3,290 


1,709 


451 


13 


12 


4 


11 


Brookhaven, 


3,741 


3,720 


1,976 


474 


18 


19 


o 


8 


Smithtown, 


954 


943 


488 


213 


4 


I 


2 


3 


Islip, 


1,096 


1,002 


584 


167 


2 


3 





1 


Huntington, 
Total, 


3,435 


3,311 


1,790 


266 


18 


17 


1 


9 


17,750 


16,829 


8,827 


1,907 


79 


S2 


12 


51 






Queen' 


s Count 


y- 


Oysterbay, 


3.202 


3,159 


1,613 


S02 


16 


S 


3 


8 


Hempstead, 


4,192 


4,077 


2,135 


368 


14 


6 


3 


7 


N. Hempstead, 


1,953 


1,944 


936 


709 


7 


5 


2 


4 


Flushing, 


1,972 


1,946 


797 


600 


9 


6 


2 


4 


Newtown, 


3"009 


2,512 


1,074 


376 


10 


12 


3 


6 


Jamaica, 
Total, 


1,913 


1,970 


819 


359 


6 


6 


8 


4 


16,241 


15,603 


7,424 


3,214 


62 


43 


21 


33 






King's 


CounUj 


r. 


Bushwick, 


954 


903 


383 


43 


2 


2 


1 





Williamsb'rgh, 


5,565 


5,773 


2,691 


420 


12 


19 


23 


20 


Flatbush, 


1.099 


1,126 


536 


299 


5 


8 


5 


5 


Flatlands, 


495 


441 


218 


70 


2 


2 








New Utrecht, 


1.048 


815 


361 


153 


3 


3 


3 


3 


Gravesend, 


468 


430 


199 


119 


3 


1 








Brooklyn, 
Total, 


28,406 


31,168 
40.656 


16,604 


3,030 


45 


50 


97 


96 


38,035 


20,992 


4,134 


72 85 |129 |l24 



125 



PART II. 



Ecclesiastical History. 

The original settlers of the whole of Suffolk County, 
and a large portion of Queen's, were Engli h emigrants, 
formed into small companies, or associations, either be- 
fore they left their place of previous residence, or imme- 
diately after they had established themseives in their new 
homes. Some of them had resided for a short time in New- 
England, while others had only made a stop there, to obtain 
information in regard to the new world. They were, however, 
puritans, in their religious views, and the advocates of civil 
as well as religious liberty. They were, without exception, 
dissenters from the church of England, and were actuated by 
the same motive that had impelled the Plymouth Pilgrims to 
bury themselves in a howling wilderness, where they hoped to 
enjoy an asylum from oppression. 

From the circumstance that the English puritans were di- 
vided in sentiment, on the form of church government, some 
of them being in favour cf strict Independency, while others 
preferred the model of Presbyterianism, it has been supposed, 
that some of the earliest churches of the island were organ- 
ised on the Presbyterian basis. It is indeed true, that at a very 
early period of their history, the name Presbyterian is applied 
to them. But it will be observed that the term Independent 
is about as common, in application to the same churches : and 
neither appears to be used as the distinctive appellation of a 
different denomination. But the most conclusive fact on this 
point is, that tfrere is no evidence of the existence of Ruling 
Elders, or a church session, or the formal adoption of the 
Presbyterian standards, in any of these churches, till after 
the commencement of the 18th century. And when we re- 
collect, that, in those early days, the most of the business of 
those congregations was transacted in their town meetings, 
of which there are ample records, it is difficult to imagine, 
that the distinctive forms of Presbyterianism could have ex- 
isted, without the recognition of any of its peculiar features, 
in those transactions. 



126 Religious denominations. [part 2. 

It is a well established fact, that the first two churches plant- 
ed on this island of the sea, were organised in New-England, 
and there furnished with pastors, who emigrated with them, 
to these solitary shores. The church at Southold was formed 
at New-Haven, and the church at Southampton, at Lynn, 
Mass. There is no reason to doubt, that these were strictly 
congregational or rather independent ; and for the reasons al- 
ready assigned, it is believed, that the most of those subse- 
quently formed, in the course of 60 or 70 years, were organ- 
ized after the New England model ; from which quarter, their 
ministers were, for a long time, obtained. 

As preliminary to the history of the different towns, and 
the several religious congregations therein, the writer had pre- 
pared, in as many distinct sections, an historical sketch of the 
rise and progress of the various denominations, that now oc- 
cupy the ground. But after committing the work to the press, 
he has found it necessary, in order to confine it within the 
limits prescribed, to content himself with the following brief 
abstract, which will afford a comparative view of the present 
condition of the various ecclesiastical organizations on the 
island. 

I. CONGREGATIONALISTS. 

The most of the churches bearing this name, were, for a 
long time, strictly independent, and their ministers without 
any ecclesiastical association. 

The earliest organization of this kind, was the " Long 
Island Convention," formed Aug. 26th, 1791. This was com- 
posed exclusively of those ministers and churches, whose sym- 
pathies were with the separation that took place in New Eng- 
land in the great revival of 1740. The Rev. James Damn- 
port, who was the minister of Southold, at the time, and whose 
erratic course is the matter of historical record, had a princi- 
pal agency in disseminating that spirit on the island. This 
Convention has never been large, though it has received or 
ordained between 20 and 30 ministers. At*the commence- 
ment of the present year, it embraced 6 ministers and 4 
churches. In April last it was, by consent of the members, 
dissolved. 

A " Long Island Association" was formed in 1836, which 
was dissolved after existing only 4 years. 

The " Consociation of Long Island" was formed March 
5th, 1840, which still exists, consisting of 5 ministers and 7 
churches, and is connected with the General Association of 
New-York. 



PART 2.] RELIGIOUS DENOMINATIONS. 127 

There are, at present 20 Congregational churches on the 
island, (the most of them strictly independent) containing an 
aggregate of 1589 communicants. These are supplied by 
about 15 ministers, the most of whom are only temporary sup- 
plies. 

II. Presbyterians. 

The first date of Presbyterianism, in its distinctive form, 
on the island, is about the 3^ear 1712. The original " Pres- 
bytery of Long Island" was set off from the Presbytery of 
Philadelphia in 17 16, and organised at Southampton April 
17th, 1717. This was the first Presbytery constituted in the 
state of New-York. It was united May 24th, 1738, with 
the eastern part of Jersey, under the name of the "Presbytery 
of New-York." 

The " Presbytery of Suffolk" was organised April 9th, 
1747, and continued till it was reorganised in Oct. 1790, by 
the Synod of New- York, under the original name of the 
" Presbytery of Long Island." 

In 1809, this Presbytery was divided into two bodies, which 
were reunited in 1840. But the schism, which took place in 
the Presbyterian church in 1838, has been followed with cor- 
responding separations and associations on the island ; so 
that there are now two entire Presbyteries, both bearing the 
same Game, besides parts of two others, which, for conven- 
ionce, are connected with the cities. 

The following is a summary of these several bodies. 

The Presbytery of Long Island, (O. S.) 15 Ministers — 17 
Congregations — 2,620 Communicants. 

Belonging to the Presbytery of New-York : 7 Ministers — 
6 Congregations — 1,485 Communicants. 

The Presbytery of Long Island, (N. S.) — 9 Ministers — 5 
Congregations — 471 Communicants. 

Belonging to the Presbytery of Brooklyn — 7 Ministers — 5 
Congregations — 1,703 Communicants. 

Total, 37 Ministers — 33 Congregations — 6,2S4 Communi- 
cants. 

III. The Reformed Dutch Church. 

The churches of the New Netherlands were founded, and 
for a long period, were under the government of the Classis of 
Amsterdam, whence they received their ministerial supplies. 

The first minister sent over to the Dutch colony, was the 

• Rev. Edverardus Bogardus, who commenced his ministry in 

New Amsterdam (New- York) in 1638. The earliest evi- 



128 RELIGIOUS DENOMINATIONS. [PART 2. 

dence of the organization of a church in that city, is in the 
following year. The first house of worship erected there, 
was that which was commenced in the fort in 1642, and fin- 
ished in 1647. It has been supposed that this was a second 
erection, but there is abundant evidence, that this was the 
first. The testimony of De Vrif.z, contained in Moulton's 
" View of JNew Orange, 1673," appears conclusive on this 
point, though other evidence is not wanting. 

For many years the scattered settlements on the west end 
of Long Island were dependent on the city for all their civil 
and ecclesiastical privileges. And it was not till 1654, that 
they enjoyed the services of a minister of their own. It was 
about this time, that the church of Flatbush was organised, 
which was the first of this denomination on the island. Other 
organizations were afterwards formed, which w r ere supplied 
by collegiate pastors till after the commencement of the pre- 
sent century. 

The "Classis of Long Island" was formed June 1st, 1813, 
which was divided into two Classes in May, 1S43. 

The following abstract from their last reports, furnishes 
their relative numbers. 

The South Classis of L. I. comprehends 9 ministers — 9 
congregations, and 1,036 communicants. The congregations 
consist of 775 families, including 4,475 individuals. 

The North Classis (with Bush wick) comprehends 8 minis- 
ters — 8 congregations, and b56 communicants — 710 families 
— 3,640 individuals. 

Total, 17 ministers— 17 congregations — 1892 communi- 
cants. 

IV. Episcopalians. 

Episcopacy was first introduced upon Long Island, in 1702, 
by missionaries sent out by the " Society for propagating the 
gospel in foreign parts." These were introduced and forced 
upon several towns, much against the wishes of the people, by 
the infamous Cornbury, then recently appointed to the govern- 
ment of the Province ; some of whose acts will necessarily 
be noticed in the annals of the towns. The churches of this 
denomination are principally established in the western coun- 
ties. 

The Journal of the Convention for 1844, gives the follow- 
ing as the aggregate of their numbers on the island, viz. : 24 
Rectors — 25 parishes, and 2,249 communicants. Three or 
four new parishes have been recognised the present year, 
which would somewhat enlarge the amount. 



PART 2.1 RELIGIOUS DENOMINATIONS. 129 



V. Methodists. 

The commencement of Methodist preaching on the island, 
is nearly coeval with its introduction into the city of New- 
York, which was in 1766. And though these efforts were 
interrupted by the war of the revolution, they were renewed, 
at an early date, after the return of peace, and gradually ex- 
tended, till this denomination have one or morn organised so- 
cieties in almost every town ; and their aggregate numbers 
exceed that of any other distinct communion. By their re- 
ports of the present year, the whole number of preachers em- 
ployed on the island is 36, and the aggregate number of 
members 6,619. 

Oilier Methodist Organizations, 

It is generally known, that since the independent organiza- 
tion of the Methodist church in America, there has been oc- 
casional dissatisfaction manifested towards some of its dis- 
tinguishing features. These are principally two : viz., its epis- 
copacy, and the concentration of power in the travelling 
preachers. These and other grounds of dissatisfaction, have 
produced multiplied secessions, from time to time, which are 
so numerous that they can only be named ; the most of which 
have distinct organizations on the island. 

1. The Reformed Methodist Churchy which was organ- 
ised in 1814. 

2. The Methodist Society (generally known as Stilwell- 
ites) in 1820. There have been several societies of ^hese on 
the island, but there are very few remaining. 

3. The Protestant Methodists, organised in 1824. They 
have 5 organised societies here, with an aggregate of 301 
members, besides several other places and circuits for preach- 
ing. 

4. The Wesley an Methodist Church, constituted in May, 
1S43, which seceded principally on the slavery question. It 
claims an aggregate of 40,000 ; is said to be rapidly increas- 
ing, and bids fair to swallow up many of the other sections. 
It has one infant society of 30 members on the island. 

5. The Primitive Methodists originated in England. They 
have one society here. 

Besides these, there are nearly as many distinct organiza- 
tions of coloured Methodists ; the most of which have socie- 
ties among us. 

1. The African Methodist Episcopal Church formed by se- 
6* 



130 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

cession in Philadelphia in 1816. They have 9 societies on 
the island, containing 553 members. 

2. The African Methodist Episcopal (Zion) Church, which 
seceded, in 1820, in the city of New-York. They number 10 
societies, in as many towns, with 387 members. 

Besides these, there are two other separate organizations of 
coloured people which will be noticed where they occur. 

VI. The Baptists. 

This denomination have 10 churches and about 1,600 mem- 
bers. 

VII. The FiiiExns, 

(Including both sections) have 12 Meeting houses. Be- 
sides these, there are 8 Roman Catholic Churches — 4 Uni- 
versalists — 1 Unitarian, and 2 small Swedenborgian's socie- 
ties. These, it is believed, constitute all the associations on 
the island claiming to be religious societies. 



ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. 

Suffolk County. 
Section 1. — Southold. 

Number of acres improved, - - - - 23,351 

" " unimproved, - - - - 29,149* 

Ratio of population to the acre, 1 to 12. 

; This township formerly occupied the entire northern branch 
of Long Island, including the present territory of the town of 
Riverhead ; and, of course, extending west to the line of Brook- 
haven. By an act of the Legislature in 1 792, its western bound- 
ary was fixed, at about 8 miles east of the head of Peconick 
Bay, running in a northerly direction from the Bay to the 
Sound ; a little west of the village of Franklinville. At that 
point the island is about 4 miles wide, and gradually dimin- 
ishes, the most of the way, to Oysterpond Point, a distance of 
twenty-two miles. The township includes Robbings Island, in 
the Peconick Bay, also Plum Island, the Gulls, and Fisher s 

* These numbers are taken from the last revision of Burr's Statistical 
Atlas. The returns of the late Census were not received in time to make 
a comparison. sHence there may be some variation at the present time. 



SECT. 1.] SOUTHOLD. 131 

Island, which extend in a direct line from Oysterponds, to 
within three or four miles of the Connecticut shore ; a dis- 
tance of eighteen miles. Thus the whole length of the town- 
ship is about forty miles. 

The old parish, where the first settlement was made, is 
nearly half way from the present western boundary of the 
town, to the Point ; and has heretofore been the .largest vil- 
lage on the territory. The Indian name, of this part of the 
Island, was Yinnicock. Besides this, there are several other 
collections of houses, familiarly called villages, in most of 
which, one or more distinct religious societies exist. Those 
to the eastward, are Stirling or Greenport — Rocky Point, and 
Oysterponds, or Orient ; and to the west, Cutchogue, Mattituck 
and Franklinville. Each of these will be noticed in their 
proper place. 

Southold was the first town settled on Long Island. The 
first company established themselves here in 1640, and con- 
sisted principally of English emigrants, from Norfolkshire, 
who had spent a short time in the Newhaven colony. There, 
by the advice and aid of Gov. Eaton, and the Rev. John 
Davenport, they were organized into a regular church, under 
a pastor, who accompanied them in their undertaking. Com- 
ing over to the island, under the patronage of that colony, 
their municipal regulations were, of course, formed on the 
principles of that government, and in subjection to their au- 
thority. The title to the land had been procured, by the 
magistrates of Newhaven, and was held by them, for a number 
of years, before it was transferred to the actual settlers. The fun- 
damental principle of that colony, by which church membership 
was made essential to the exercise of freemen's rights, was, of 
course, established here ; and their early political institutions 
were formed on that basis. Among the first things, provision 
was made, for the support of the gospel, the education of the 
children, and the preservation of the public morals. And to 
preserve the infant settlement from the intrusion of unwhole- 
some immigrants, a committee was appointed to regulate the 
admission of settlers; without whose consent no new in- 
habitant could be admitted, nor any one dispose of his 
possessions. On this principle, the most of the east- 
ern towns were regulated, from the outset. Those saga- 
cious pioneers were fully convinced, that it was far better 
and much easier to prevent the ingress of undesirable citi- 
zens, than to correct and reform them, after they had come 
in. And being the lords of the soil, they did, as they had 



132 4NNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

a perfect right to claim the privilege of judging the charac- 
ter of those who proposed to become members of their com- 
monwealth. 

Churches. 

One of the first undertakings of the settlement, was the 
erection of a house of worship. It was commenced in the 
first year, though probably not completed till 1641. This 
building, and that at Southampton, were the first sanctuaries 
erected for the worship of the Livixg God, within the entire 
province of the New Netherlands. 

This first building was occupied as a house of worship, till 
1684 ; in which year, it was voted " to take it for a jail ;" and 
it was thus used till 1725. From this circumstance, it may 
be inferred that it must have been a substantial building- 
most probably built of logs. At the same time it was voted 
*' to sell some windows that were left of the new meeting 
house;" from which it is supposed that a new church had 
been erected in that year. 

April 7th, 1700, it was " voted to build a gallery in the east 
end of'the meeting house." 

In 1711, a third church edifice was erected, which was 
thirty-two by fifty feet. In the following year, there was a 
vote passed " to seat the meeting house" and a committee 
appointed to superintend the work. 

In 1S03, the present house, which is forty by sixty feet, 
was erected. 

• The basis, on which the Church, was originally organized, 
was Congregational ; and it retained that form, for the long 
period of one hundred and ninety-two years. Although seve- 
ral of its pastors were members of the Presbytery, and were 
settled and dismissed by that body, yet the church, retained 
its ancient platform, till April ISth, 1832, at which time it 
united with the Presbytery. By exchanging its form of gov- 
ernment, this church made no change of creed. One of its 
late pastors remarks, " In its doctrine, it was, and still is Cal- 
vinistic." 

The Methodist Society in this village was organized in 
1794, and a small building erected not long afterwards, which 
is now very much in decay. 

An Academy was erected here, in 1S34, and is one of the 
most spacious edifices of the kind in the county, \>ut not 
extensively patronized. 

In 1836, a Universalist house of worship was erected. 



SECT. 2.] SOUTHOLDo 133 



Ministers. 

The first pastor of this church, who came with the first 
company of settlers, was the Rev. John Youngs. He had 
been a minister in England, and emigrated to this country, 
with several of his church, not long before their remofal to 
the island. He was a man of respectability and excellence. 
He died in 1672, at the age of 74 years. His descendants 
are numerous, and among the most respectable on the island. 

He was succeeded by the Rev. Joshua Hobart, who was 
engaged by a committee sent to Boston to obtain " an hon- 
est and godly minister." He was settled Oct. 7th, 1074, and 
died February 28th, 1717 at the age of 88 years. 

The Rev. Benjamin Woolsey, the third pastor, was ordain- 
ed here, by an ecclesiastical council in July, 1720. He re- 
signed his charge, and removed in 1736, to Dosoris, in the 
northwest part of Oysterbay ; where he spent the remainder 
of his life on his wife's estate, preaching in the surrounding 
country. He died August 15th, 1756, aged 70 years. 

The Rev. James Davenport, the-fourlh pastor, was the great 
grandson of the Rev. John Davenport of Newhaven. He 
was born at Stamford, Conn., in 1710, graduated at Yale in 
1732, and was ordained here, Oct. 20th, 1738. His erratic 
course will be more particularly noticed. He was dismissed 
in 1746, and was afterwards settled in Hopewell, N. J., where 
he died in 1755. 

The Rev. William Troop, who had been previously settled 
in Connecticut, was installed here, Sept. 21st, 1748, by the 
Presbytery of Suffolk, sitting in council with other ministers. 
His ministry was short, and attended, as might have been 
anticipated from the course of his predecessor, with trials. 
Among the preliminaries to his settlement, the people re- 
quired a stipulation that he would baptize on the " half-way 
covenant*' plan. He died Sept. 29th, 1756, aged 36 years, 1 
month, and 7 days. 

During the succeeding vacancy, " a member of this church 
married the sister of his deceased wife, who was likewise a 
member of said church ; which affair occasioned an uneasi- 
ness and grievance in the church. The deacons of the church 
did, (in behalf of the church,) relate the case to this Presby- 
tery and desire the opinion of the Presbytery relating to the 
case, both as to their present duty, and the lawfulness of the 
marriage. The Presbytery, after considering and convers- 



134 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

ing upon the case, gave it as their opinion and judgment, 
that the afore-mentioned marriage is unlawful and sinful ; 
and that consequently the married couple should be set aside 
from the sacrament, when it is administered, till satisfaction 
be made." (Records of Suffolk Pres. Oct. 19th, 1757.) 

The Rev. John Slorrs was ordained the sixth pastor, Aug. 
15th, 1763. He left the island near the commencement of 
the revolutionary war, and was absent from his charge from 
Aug. 1776 to June, 1782. He was dismissed April 13th, 1787. 

During the succeeding ten years the church was without a 
settled pastor, and was supplied for a longer or shorter time, 
by several different ministers and licentiates ; some of whom 
were men of peculiar excellence. Nehemiah Baldwin Cook, 
who was one of them, was a young man of distinguished 
piety, and a pungent preacher. He was a native of the 
island, and was licensed by the Suffolk Presbytery in the fall 
of 1789. His career, though brilliant and successful, was 
short. He died at Sag Harbour of the small-pox, May 4th, 
1792, and his remains lie buried in the old burying yard of 
that place. His humble tomb-stone bears an appropriate epi- 
taph of his own selection. " Though poor, he desired to make 
many rich." His memory is still embalmed in the hearts of 
a surviving few : and his name is familiar to the most of the 
present generation, on the east end of the island. 

Mr. Herman Dagget, whose name will receive honourable 
mention in connexion with other churches, was a popular 
candidate, but as he would not practise on the " half way 
covenant," he was permitted to leave this congregation. 

The Rev. Elam Potter laboured here from Nov. 1792, till 
his death, which took place Jan. 5th, 1794. 

The Rev. Joseph Hazzard, the seventh pastor, was ordained 
June 7th, 1797, — was dismissed April, 1806, and died in 
1817. 

The Rev. Jonathan Huntting, a native of Easthampton, 
commenced preaching here in June, 1806, and was ordained 
pastor, Aug. 20th, 1807 ; at which time, the church consented 
to give up the "half-way covenant." He was dismissed at 
his own request, Aug. 27th, 1828, and has continued to reside 
in the place ; though generally employed in preaching the 
gospel in other congregations. 

At the time of Mr. Huntting's settlement, the church con- 
sisted of only 56 members. During his ministry, four seasons 
of special revival were enjoyed ; viz., in 1808-10-15 &; 16- 
18 & 19. " The whole number added was 129, leaving at 



SECT. 1.] SOUTHOLD. 135 

the date of his dismission, 101. The whole number of deaths 
in the parish had been 325 — the greatest number in one year, 
26— the least, 9." 

After occasional supplies for 2 years, Mr. William Fuller 
a licentiate from Connecticut, commenced preaching here, in 
June 1830. Having been ordained in Oct. following, by a 
Conn. Association, he united with the Presbytery, and con- 
tinued with this congregation till June, 1833. During this 
time, 56 were added to the church. The year 1831 was 
marked as a season of special refreshing. 

The Rev. Nehemiah B. Cook, (a kinsman of the individual 
of the same name previously mentioned,) supplied this church 
from 1833 to 1835. 

The Rev. Ralph Smith, who had commenced preaching 
here as a licentiate, in Nov. 1835, was ordained pastor of the 
church, July 15th, 1836. Being dismissed, at his own re- 
quest, April 18th, 1838, after a temporary absence, he con- 
tinued as a stated supply, till Dec. 1840. During his admin- 
istration, 19 were added to the church. 

The Rev. Alonzo Welton was employed from Nov. 1841, 
to May 1844. During this period 46 were added. 

The Rev. George F. Wisiccll commenced supplying the con- 
gregation, not long after, and was ordained pastor, June ISth, 
1845. 

This parish, which now embraces about 100 families, has 
enjoyed other seasons of revival, besides those which have 
been mentioned. The church, though never large, has gene- 
rally maintained a healthful tone of piety. The church now 
consists of 134 members. 

Greenport, (formerly Stirling,) a village at the termination 
of the L. I. Rail Road, about 4 miles north east of the old 
parish, has sprung up since 1827, and is now the largest com- 
pact settlement, in the town. It has an excellent harbour, and 
12 ships employed in the whaling business. It is the well- 
known terminus of the L. 1. Rail Road. 

The Baptist church, which was the first erected here, was 
removed from Rocky Point, about a mile to the north west, 
and rebuilt in 1833. It was first occupied about a year by the 
Rev. Mr. James who was succeeded by the Rev. William 
Knapp. The Rev. Alvan Acklcy, the present pastor, com- 
menced his labours here in 1838. The church now consists 
of 151 members. 

The people of Rocky Point, being dissatisfied with the re- 
moval of the church, have seen fit to erect another, in the 



136 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART % 

last year, about a mile and a half from Greenport, though 
they have no ecclesiastical organization. 

The Methodist Episcopal Church was erected in 1834 ; and 
has been supplied by a succession of ministers, according to 
the discipline of that denomination, whose annual, or biennial 
changes preclude the record of their names, if they could be 
obtained. 

The Presbyterian Church was organized Feb. 7th, 1833, and 
the Rev. Alfred Ketch am was its stated supply about two years. 

The Rev. Daniel Beers was installed pastor, Dec. *2, 1835. 
The house of worship which had been previously erected, was 
completed in the succeeding year. He was dismissed Jan. 
31st, 1839. 

The Rev. William Huntting was a stated supply for two or 
three years. 

The Rev. J. A. Saxton, was ordained the second pastor 
June Tth, 1843, and was dismissed April 15th, 1845. 

Mr. John Woodbridgc, a licentiate of the L. I. Presbytery, 
has been labouring for some months, in this congregation and 
has received a call to become their pastor, and his ordination is 
expected to take place in November. 

There is also in this village a small society called the Con- 
gregational church of Greenport, but they have no house of 
worship, nor stated preacher. Number of members about 15. 

Orient, [formerly Oysterponds,] called by the Indians Po- 
quatuck, is a peninsula, 4 or 5 miles long, containing about 
3,000 acres, and forms the termination of the northern branch. 
On the north shore, the land is somewhat elevated, but the 
residue is a perfect level, and of a superior quality, eminently 
deserving the appellation it has received, " The Garden of 
Long Island." Every rood is capable of cultivation, and am- 
ply repays the labour of the husbandman. 

The village, recently named Orient, is situated on the south- 
western part of the peninsula, and has an air of neatness and 
thrift. A large boarding house has been erected by individ- 
ual enterprise, at the Point, 3 miles east, and is becoming a 
place of considerable resort, in " the rusticating season" as a 
watering place. A more quiet and delightful retreat cannot 
be found, within 100 miles of the city. 

The settlement of this territory was commenced about 7 
years after the founding of Southold. But there is scarcely a 
parish on the Island, whose history is involved in greater obscu- 
rity. No records of the village or church extend as far back 
as the memory of persons yet living. When the church was 



SECT. 1.] SOUTH OLD. 137 

formed — on what basis — when the first house of worship was 
erected, and by whom occupied, nobody can tell. 

At the commencement of the present century, a small 
square church of a peculiar structure, bearing the marks of 
old age, is recollected to have been standing. But whether 
it was the first or second house of worship, is unknown. 

In 1817, a new church was built, but so uncomfortable in 
its construction, that in 1843, it was pulled down and a new 
one erected in its place. This is a very neat and commodious 
edifice. 

From the records of Suffolk Presbytery, it appears that a 
committee of that body met here Nov. 9th, 1757, for the pur- 
pose of ordaining Mr. Jonathan Barber, " who had laboured 
there some years," but as they found the church in a very 
" broken and disjointed state," they proceeded to his ordina- 
tion on the following day, " without any special relation to 
the church and congregation — advising him to exercise his 
ministry there, in order to gather and form a church accord- 
ing to gospel order." Mr. Barber was a native of West 
Springfield, Mass., born Jan. 31st., 1712 — graduated at Yale, 
1730 — licensed b} 7- Springfield Association in 1732, and 
preached a while at Agawam, in that vicinity. Whitefield, 
on his first visit to New England, in 1740, met with Mr. 
Barber, and being pleased with him, employed him as the 
spiritual superintendent of his Orphan House. There he re- 
mained 7 years. How long he laboured at Oysterponds, and 
with what results, is not known. He removed to Groton, 
Conn., and was settled there. He subsequently fell under a 
deep melancholy, and died suddenly, Oct. 8th, 1783. 

A Mr. Lee succeeded Mr. B., and left in 1775. 

The Rev. Emerson Foster, is recollected as the pastor of 
this church, at the commencement of the present century. 
But when he was settled is not known. About the year 1804 
or 5, his health failed, and he relinquished his charge : and 
for several succeeding years, the congregation was vacant. 

The Rev. Ezra Haines was ordained, Aug. 17th, 1819, by 
the Presbytery of Long Island. He made shipwreck of min- 
isterial and christian character, and was deposed from the 
ministry, March 24th, 1813. 

The Rev. Thomas I. de Verell, from England, was ordained 
here, in Dec. 1819, by the L. I. Convention. He, like his 
predecessor, forfeited his character and was deposed. 

These repeated defections, as might be expected, produced 
most unhappy effects upon the interests of religion, in this 



138 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

place. The enemies of the cross were emboldened to blas- 
pheme, and a general distrust of ministerial and christian cha- 
racter pervaded the community. For several years, the ways 
of Zion mourned, and her courts lay in ruins. 

About the year 1825, the Rev Jonathan Robinson, a man 
of great simplicity of character, and ardent piety, who will 
be more particularly noticed in another place, came among 
this people. By his manifest honesty of purpose, ancf inde- 
fatigable labours, which were attended with the divine bless- 
ing, the public attention was aroused, and the breaches began 
to be repaired. In the course of 2 years, the way was opened 
for the re-establishment of gospel ordinances, and in 1827, 
the Rev. Phinehas Robinson, son of the former, was employed. 
He remained 4 years as a stated supply. His labours were 
blessed, and the church was strengthened. Several other sup- 
plies were employed, for a longer or shorter period, of whom 
we have no particulars. 

In Feb. 1839, the Rev. Daniel Beers commenced his la- 
bours here as stated supply, and still continues in that rela- 
tion. The parish was probably never in a more prosperous 
condition than at the present time. 

A correspondent remarks, that "between 20 and 30 minis- 
ters have officiated at different times in this church, but Mr. 
Foster alone has been installed pastor." It is known to have 
enjoyed several seasons of revival,' but it is impossible to state 
particulars. 

A method ist church was erected in the village of Orient, a 
few years ago, which is constantly supplied. 

The whole number of families on the peninsula probably 
does not exceed 125. 

Cutchogue is a pleasant settlement, five miles to the west- 
ward of the old parish of Southold, still bearing the name 
(with only a slight change in the orthography) of the Indian 
tribe, that originally occupied the whole of this branch of the 
island. A church was erected here in 1732. It was repair- 
ed, and the interior remodeled in 1S38. It is still a sub- 
stantial building, and bears, internally, more of its antique 
features, than any other church on the island. The pulpit 
remains unaltered, and is believed to be the only sample of its 
kind left.* 



* As an example of the manner, in which ancient dates, of which 
there is no record, may sometimes be recovered, taka»the following note, 
kindly furnished by Judg-e London of this parish :— 



SECT. 1.] SOUTHOLD. 139 

At what time, and under what form a church was first or- 
ganized here, or who was its first pastor, it is impossible to 
determine, as there are no early records. The Rev. Ebenezer 
Gould is the first of whom* there is any certain information. 
He had been pastor of the Presbyterian Church in Green- 
wich, Cumberland county, N. J., from 1728 to 1740, and 
came to Long Island in the last mentioned year. A" private 
memorandum of ministerial changes, kept by an individual in 
Southold, to which we shall have occasion to make frequent 
reference, says '« Mr. Gould installed Sept. 1740 :" and though 
no place is mentioned, it was undoubtedly here. Having pre- 
viously been a member of the Presbytery of Philadelphia, Mr. 
Gould was one of the six ministers, who united in the organi- 
zation of the Suffolk Presbytery in 174?. And it may be re- 
marked that a member of this church, though not delegated, 
was present on that occasion and approved of the plan. 

It appears from the records of the Presbytery that shortly 
after, Mr. G. and his people, mutually agreed on a separa- 
tion, which although informal, was approved in Oct. 1747. 
The following is the record of the Presbytery on the subject : — 

" The main part of the congregation at Cutchogue, to 
which Mr. Gould ministered, being rigid Congregationalists, 
things, at the time he and they mutually agreed to be at lib- 
erty one from another as minister and people, were come to 
such a crisis, by reason of separations, divisions, and aliena- 
tion of affection, that his temporal support very much failed, 
and there was little or no prospect of his serving the interests 

M Extract from Alvah Goldsmith's letter to Mr. Mapes, of Guilford, 
Connecticut, 

"I have searched, andean find nothing ; only that my grandfather 
was born May 27th or 28th, 1732, and died in 1816, in the 85th year of 
his age." 

" Deacon William Wells declares in the most positive terms, that he 
has often heard his mother say (who was sister to John Goldsmith, the 
grandfather of the said Alvah*Goldsmith,) that her brother John was born 
on the next day after the meeting house now standing in Cutchoqne was 
raised. Deacon William Wells' mother obtained her information from 
her mother, who often assured her that such was the fact." 

The writer may be permitted to add, in connexion with this venerable 
building, that here he made his first essays to preach the everlasting gos- 
pel, having been licensed Oct. 10th, 1805, by the L. I. Presbytery. And 
he had the melancholy pleasure, on the 30th of March, 1845, of standing 
in the same old pulpit, and preaching to a congregation consisting, 
almost entirely, of another generation. Only here and there, was there 
one, who had occupied those seats in former days. And those, how 
changed ! as was the speaker. «* Our fathers ; where are they? and the 
•prophets, do they live forever ?" 



140 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

of religion among them : and he being removed into New 
England, and united with an Association there, upon satis- 
factory credentials, his dismission and recommendation is 
approved by the Presbytery." 

The Rev. Thomas Paine was ordained pastor of this 
church, October 24th, 1750. He was a graduate of Yale, 
and had been licensed by Suffolk Presbj tery, December 20th, 
1748, who recommended him to the churches in general, and 
to Cutchogue in particular. Hence, it is probable that his 
labours with this people commenced, not far from that time. 
He was ordained by an ecclesiastical council, which was ap- 
pointed to meet on the same day with the stated meeting of 
the Presbytery in another congregation ; for which irregular- 
ity he was called to an account. His name frequently ap- 
pears in the records of the Presbytery as " an assistant" but 
he was received June 15th, 1763, as a constituent member ; 
and at the same time, the church of Cutchogue was at their 
own request, taken under the care of the Presbytery. On 
the 25th of October following, a Committee of the Presby- 
tery was appointed to visit this church and adjust difficulties. 
And April 9th, 1766, Deacon Thomas Goldsmith of Cutchogue 
complained to the Presbytery of the church of Cutchogue 
** for acting in opposition to the Presbytery, and for employ- 
ing unauthorized, heretical, and disorderly men as teachers 
among them." Another committee was appointed, but the 
result is not known. These facts, however show, that this 
church was for a long period agitated with diversities of views 
and administrations. Mr. Paine died Oct. 14th, 1760, in the 
43d year of his age, and his remains repose in the parish bu- 
rial yard. 

For nearly twenty years succeeding the death of Mr. 
Paine, the writer has been unable to trace any regular ad- 
ministration in this church. They probably enjoyed the la- 
bours of temporary supplies, but it is questionable whether 
they had a stated pastor. 

In 1786, Mr. Zechariah Greene commenced preaching 
here, and he was ordained June 28th, 17»7, as pastor. He 
was dismissed and removed to Brookhaven, in 1797, where he 
will be again noticed. 

From this time, till 1810, this congregation had no settled 
pastor ; but were served by different individuals, for a longer 
or shorter time. During this interval the parish became in- 
volved in a most unhappy controversy among themselves. 
The occasion was as follows : The founders of the congrega- 



SECT. 1. sotjthold: 141 

tion had funded a considerable sum of money, expressly for 
the support of the gospel ; and more recently, this sum had 
been considerably increased by individual contributions. 
About this time a difference of opinion arose as to the man- 
ner of managing the money ; whether by a committee of 
trust, as had been the previous practice, or by trustees, chosen 
under an incorporation, which had then recently been formed 
according to the statute. It is a matter of astonishment that 
a question of this kind should have produced such a contro- 
versy ; but it is a fact, that the contention proceeded till the 
church was divided, the administration of the special ordi- 
nances suspended, the house of God, in a great measure, for- 
saken, and some individuals indiscreetly bound themselves by 
a vow, " never to enter the church again ;" and to crown the 
whole, the two parties became involved in an expensive suit 
in Chancery. 

In November, 1805, a portion of the congregation rallied, 
and, by their individual subscriptions, (for the funds were 
now out of their reach,) engaged a supply for a few months. 
In connection with the preaching of the gospel, direct mea- 
sures were adopted to reconcile the church and congregation. 
The 1st of January, 1816, was a notable day, in the history 
of this parish. A public meeting was held, and after hearing 
a sermon, the church unanimously agreed to bury all their 
differences, and proceeded to the election of deacons, which 
office had long been vacant. In due time, these were set 
apart, and the administration of the ordinances restored. In 
the course of .the winter, the contending parties of the con- 
gregation agreed on terms of settlement — the chancery suit 
was withdrawn and the whole subject was amicably adjusted, 
to the satisfaction of all concerned. After temporary sup- 
plies, 

The Rev. Lalhrop Thompson was installed pastor of this 
church, May 2d, 1810, and continued in this relation till 
Aug. 29th, 1826; when he was dismissed, and returned to 
Vermont, where he died some years afterwards. He was an 
evangelical man and faithful minister. 

The Rev. Ezra Youngs, a lineal descendant from the 
first minister of Southold, has been the stated supply of 
this congregation, with the exception of a single year, from 
1828 to the present time. But the interests of this congrega- 
tion, as of many others, are manifestly suffering, under the 
system of stated supplies, depending on the recurrence of an 
annual contract, 



142 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

The Methodists commenced preaching within the bounds 
of this parish, about 20 years ago, and in 1829, they erected 
a house of worship, (about a mile east of the other church,) 
which is regularly supplied. 

The following paragraph forms a part of the religious his- 
tory of this congregation. 

Near the commencement of the present century, Seth 
Wells, a native of this parish embraced the faith and practice 
of the Shakers. He left his father's house, went to Niscayuna, 
and soon became a leader of that singular sect. In 1803 or 
'4 he visited his father's family, which consisted of seven 
sons and two daughters ; and succeeded in making converts 
of his mother, sisters and five brothers. For a number of 
weeks, they kept up their dancing exercises, to the great 
amazement of the neighbourhood, and annoyance of all se- 
rious-minded people, without making any more proselytes, 
except a widow of a collateral branch of the family. The 
mother remained, till the death of her husband, which occur- 
red several years afterwards. One or two of the sons, who 
had families, delayed a few years. But sooner or later, nine- 
teen individuals of this single family have removed, and be- 
come incorporated with this dancing sect. This, however, is 
the beginning and the end of Shakerism on Long Island. 

Maitituck is another small parish 2 miles west of Cutchogue. 
This territory, including the present town of Riverhead, was 
purchased of the Corchaug Indians, in lo49. Its settlement, 
it is probable, was commenced soon after ; but it was a con- 
siderable time, before it became a distinct parish. It has been 
said that a church was erected here, before the close of that 
century ; but the earliest authentic information the writer has 
been able to obtain, is the following : — 

" In 1715, a half acre of land, as a site for a church, and 
an acre and a half adjoining, for a burying ground, were given 
by James Reeve. The conveyance bears date Nov. 7th, 1715, 
and in the following year a house of worship was erected, by 
Nathaniel Warner, master builder." Shortly after, a church 
was organized, and the Rev. Joseph Lamb became the pastor. 
His name first appears in the records of the Synod of N. Y., 
and Philadelphia, in 1719, from which it may be inferred, 
that he united with the original Presbytery of Long Island, 
within the first or second year of its existence. The private 
record already referred to, says " Joseph Lamb, ordained Dec. 
4th, 1717." From a monument in the graveyard, it appears 
that Mrs. Lamb died here in April, 1829. Mr. Lamb left the 



SECT. 1.] SOTJTHOLD. 143 

island, some years afterwards, and was settled at Baskingridge, 
N. J., where he died, in 1749. His death is noticed in the 
minutes of the Synod in 1750. The estimation, in which he 
was held by that people, may be inferred from the fact, that 
they made immediate application to the Presbytery of Suffolk 
to send them another minister. 

From the time of Mr. Lamb's removal, the congregation 
appears to have been destitute of any stated preaching, for se- 
veral years. After this, its history is, in a great measure, 
identified with that of Lower Aquebogue, a parish about four 
miles distant, in the town of Riverhead, with which it has been 
long united in the support of divine institutions. 

On the 10th of June 1752, the Rev. Joseph Paries was 
regularly installed pastor of these united parishes ; and at the 
same time, 7 males and 15 females, who, the Presbytery say, 
' ; had belonged to the churches of Mr. Lamb and Mr. Mather" 
were organized into one church. 

These solemn exercises were preceded, by the observance 
of a day of fasting, humiliation and prayer, in which Messrs. 
Troop and Paine assisted — Mr. Parks was dismissed Feb 11th, 
1756, having administered 92 baptisms, admitted 6 to the com- 
munion, and solemnized 23 marriages. 

In June following, the congregation with the approbation of 
the Presbytery, invited the Rev. Nehemiah Barker, who had 
been previously settled at Killingly, Conn., to labour with them. 
Oct. 10th, 1759, the Presbytery gave him leave to return to 
New England, and recommended him as " a regular member 
of the Presbytery and a worthy minister of the gospel." It 
appears, however, that he did not remove, and continued in the 
charge of the united congregations till 1766 ; from which 
time, he confined his labours to Mattituck, till his death, which 
occurred March 10th, 1772, at the age of 52 years. Mr. 
Barker baptized 133 ; admitted to communion 30, and cele- 
brated 57 marriages. 

From Oct. 14th, 1772, this congregation employed the Rev. 
Jesse Ives, one year, during which time, he baptized 7, and 
solemnized 2 marriages. 

The Rev. John Davenport, was ordained June 4th, 1775, 
and served this congregation as a stated supply for 2 years. 
He vas the son of the Rev. James Davenport, of Southold. 
He was an amiable and excellent man, laboured some years 
in different places on the island, and was dismissed from the 
Presbytery of Suffolk April 12th, 17^6. He was settled at 
Deerfield, N. J., Aug. 12th, 1795, and dismissed, from failure 



144 AXNALS OP THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

of health, in 1S05. He died July 13th, 1821. During the 
two years he laboured here, he baptized 6, admitted to the 
communion 4, and celebrated 8 marriages. He was one of 
the first ministers on the island, that refused to administer 
baptism on the indulgent plan. While at Mattituck, he mar- 
ried the widow of Mr. Barker his predecessor, with whom, 
notwithstanding the great disparity of their ages, he lived 
happily for many years. 

The Rev. Benjamin Goldsmith who will be more particularly 
noticed as the pastor at Aquebogue, took the charge of this 
congregation in 1777, in connection with the other, of which 
he had the previous charge, and continued till his death, in 
1810. 

The Rev. Benjamin Bailey was ordained pastor, Nov. 6th, 
1811, and dismissed May 18th, 1816. 

The Rev. Nathaniel Reeve, was employed as a stated supply, 
from 1817 to 1823, when his health failed, and he was laid 
aside from active labour. But to the honour of the people, 
'• he was not wickedly and ungratefully abandoned, but lived 
on the parsonage, had the avails of the funds ; and his rela- 
tives and other benevolent persons saw, that he and his family 
were provided for, during more than nine years." An exam- 
ple worthy of being held up for the imitation of the churches 
on Long Island and elsewhere. He died April 9th, 1833, at 
the age of 72 years. 

For five years, from June 1825, the Rev. A. Abraham Luce 
acted as stated supply to both these congregations, (now 
called Union Parish,) dividing his time between them and 
Westhampton. From June, 1830 to 1835, Mr. Luce's labours 
were devoted exclusively to Union parish. 

The Rev. Jonathan Huntting was their stated supply for one 
year, and a Mr. Gilbert, a licentiate of Niagara Presbytery, 
for two years. 

Jan. 1st, 1839, Mr. Luce again became the stated supply 
of this parish, in which capacity he still continues. 

A new church was erected at Mattituck in 1830. 

A more particular notice of the state of the church, and the 
character of the several ministers, will be given in the history 
of Aquebogue. 

Franklinville is a small village of modern origin, which is 
situated on the west line of the town of Southold, about half 
way between Mattituck and Aquebogue ; two parishes, that 
have been united almost 100 years in the support of divine 
institutions, being only 4 miles apart. It owes its existence, at 



SECT. 1.] SOUTHOLD. 145 

least as a distinct parish, to a fruitless attempt to unite both 
congregations at a common centre. However desirable such 
a result might have been, it was evidently an undertaking, 
which, under existing circumstances, could have presented 
little hope of success. It was scarcely to be expected, that 
two distinct settlements, which had had their separate houses 
of worship, with their burial grounds attached, and their 
various attachments formed and cemented, through the course 
of an entire century, would unitedly agree to relinquish all 
these cherished associations, and erect a house of worship, in 
a solitary spot between them. Under these influences, the 
people of the old congregations resolved to rebuild their re- 
spective churches ; and a few of each determined on erecting 
a third, about midway between them. 

This new spot was first called the Middle District, but even- 
tually assumed its present name. The church was commenc- 
ed in 1830 and dedicated in the spring of 1831. On the 
15th of June following, a church, consisting of 27 members, 
was organized by the Presbytery of Long Island. In 1833, 
a number of families having located in the vicinity, an Acad- 
emy edifice was erected. Till this time the church bad 
enjoyed only occasional supplies. In that year the Rev. 
Phinehas Robinson took charge of the Academy, and was in- 
stalled Aug. 28th, 1833, as pastor of the church. Under his 
ministry, the cause of religion was advanced, and the church 
considerably increased in numbers. He, however, was con- 
strained, by the state of his health to request a dismission, 
which was granted Oct. 14th, 1835. 

In 1S36 or 7, some unhappy difficulties arose, by which, in 
their results, about 20 prominent members were induced 
to leave the church. 

The Rev. Jonathan Huntting was employed as a stated 
supply for two years, — Mr. Henry Clark, a licentiate from 
Connecticut, for a year ; and the Rev. William Toby for a 
year and a half. 

Mr. Clark, having received ordination in his absence, 
returned, and is still employed as the teacher of the Academy, 
and the supply of the church. It is said, that " the state of 
morals in this small parish, will compare with that of any 
other, on this part of the island." The church has enjoyed 
repeated seasons of refreshing, with considerable additions, 
and now consists of 65 members. In 1835 it numbered 90. - 

Notwithstanding the success, which has attended this under- 
taking, it cannot be looked upon, by an indifferent eye, but 

7 



146 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

with feelings of regret. Standing as it does, ecclesia iti tech. 
sid, a church in the midst of another church ; being itself a 
feeble band, it can gain strength, only at the expense of the 
other two churches, which have been struggling for exist- 
ence from their commencement. And although the deed is 
done, and probably will never be undone ; yet it may serve to 
teach other congregations, that the multiplication of churches, 
beyond the actual wants of a community, instead of subserv- 
ing, actually injures the cause of religion. And especially, 
when they impose on their minister the necessity of following 
some secular employment, for support, in whole or in part, the 
spiritual interests of the church must feel the effects. 

Summary. — In this town, there are 13 churches, or houses 
of worship, viz ; 4 Presbyterian, 3 Congregational, 4 Me- 
thodist, 1 Baptist, 1 Universalist. 



As the ministry of Mr. Davenport had a deep and abiding 
influence on the interests of religion, not only in the church 
of which he was the settled pastor, but in all the eastern towns, 
a more particular account of his singular career is indispens- 
able to a correct understanding of ecclesiastical matters on 
Long Island. 

He was a young man of an amiable disposition, and es- 
teemed piety. Naturally of an ardent temperament, that 
trait of character, instead of being controlled and regulated, 
was lamentably increased, by his associations while in Col- 
lege. He was the bosom friend of a wild enthusiast, by the 
name of Ferris, who laid claim to superior attainments in re- 
ligious matters. " He professed to know the will of God in 
all things — that he had not committed a sin in six years — 
he should have a higher seat in Heaven than Moses ; and 
not one in ten of the communicants, in the church in 
New Haven, could be saved." This man obtained a great as- 
cendency over several of the students, but especially Daven- 
. And to his influence, probably, more than that of any 
man, is to be imputed the wayward course which Da- 
rt pursued ; though Ferris afterwards abandoned his 
own scheme and became a Quaker-preacher. 

►out 2 years after his settlement at Southold, Davenport 
< : became that God had revealed to him, that his 

coming with great power, and that he had an 
nary call to labour for its advancement. He assem- 
bled his people on one occasion, and addressed them continu- 



SECT. 1.] 60UTH0LD. 147 

ously for nearly 24 hours, until he become quite wild. After 
continuing some time, in exciting labours in his own neigh- 
bourhood, he passed over into Connecticut," where the same 
spirit had been developed, and was producing disastrous re- 
sults in many of the churches. " He soon became animated 
by a furious zeal," says Dr. Miller, in his life of Edwards, 
" and imagining that he was called to take a special lead in 
the work, he began to set at nought all the rules of Christian 
prudence and order, and to give the most unrestrained liberty 
to his finatical feelings. He raised his voice to the highest 
pitch in public services, and accompanied his unnatural ve- 
hemence and cantatory bawling with the most vehement 
agitations of body. He encouraged his hearers to give vent, 
without restraint, both to their distress and their joy, by vio- 
lent outcries, in the midst of public assemblies. When these 
things prevailed among the people, accompanied with bodily 
agitations, he pronounced them tokens of the presence of God. 
Those who passed immediately from great distress to great 
joy, he declared, after asking them a few questions, to be con- 
verts ; though numbers of such converts, in a short time, re- 
turned to their old way of living, and were as carnal, wicked, 
and void of experience, as ever they were. He openly en- 
couraged his new converts to speak in public, and brought for- 
ward many ignorant and unqualified persons, young and old, 
to address large assemblies, in his own vehement and magis- 
terial manner. He led his followers in procession through the 
streets, singing psalms and hymns. He was a great favourer 
of visions, trances, imaginations and powerful impressions, 
and made such impulses and inward feelings the rule of duty 
for himself and others. He claimed a kind of prescriptive 
right to sit in judgment on the character of ministers, and af- 
ter examining them as to their spiritual state, in private, would 
often pronounce them, in his public prayers, to be unconvert- 
ed. Those who refused to be examined, were sure to suffer 
the same fate. He made his prayers the medium of harsh 
and often indecent attacks on ministers and others, whom he 
felt disposed, on any account, to censure. And in his ha- 
rangues, he would inform the people that their ministers were 
unconverted, and tell them that they had as good eat ratsbane 
as hear an unconverted minister. On more than one occa- 
sion he publicly refused to receive the sacramental symbols, 
because he doubted the piety of the pastors. Congregations 
were exhorted to eject their ministers ; and dissatisfied minori- 
ties were encouraged to break off and form new churches ; 



148 ANNALS OP THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

and in this, a number of congregations were greatly weakened 
and others nearly destroyed. In a number of churches, Mr. 
Davenport had his blind and servile imitators, who prorogated 
and extended these disorders, and by their unhallowed mix- 
tures with the work of grace filled the minds of many with 
prejudices against the whole, as fanaticism and delusion ; 
made the very name of a revival odious in the ears of many 
intelligent Christians, and gave rise to multiplied evils, which, 
in two-thirds of a century afterwards, had not entirely disap- 
peared." 

It is also stated on good authority that "he declaimed much 
against pride in dress, which he styled idolatry ; and on one 
occasion, at New London, he kindled a large fire at a place 
previously designated, and calling upon his followers to come 
forward and destroy their idols, not only many useless orna- 
ments, but numerous garments, and other valuable articles 
were committed to the flames. In a similar manner, under 
the guise of rooting out heresy, many books, and some of them 
of sterling excellence, such as Beveridge's and Flavel's works, 
were cast into the fire." 

Of his manner of preaching, and the extravagant measures 
he pursued, the following description is given by Dr. Bacon : — 

" He would work upon their fancy, till they saw, as with 
their eyes, the agony, and heard, as with their ears, the groans 
of Calvary, and felt as the Popish enthusiast feels, when, un- 
der the spell of music, he looks upon the canvass alive with 
the agony of Jesus. He would so describe the surprize, con- 
sternation and despair of the damned, with looks and screams 
of horror, that those who were capable of being moved by such 
representations, seemed to see the gate of hell set open, and 
felt, as it were, the hot and stifling breath, and the " hell- 
flames" flashing in their faces. And if, by such means, he 
could cause any to scream out, he considered that as a sign of 
the special presence of the Holy Spirit, and redoubled his own 
exertions, till shriek after shriek, bursting from one quarter 
and another in hideous discord, swelled the horrors of the 
scene. In one instance, it is recorded of him as follows — this 
I suppose to be an exaggerated description of the manner in 
which he ordinarily proceeded, at the close of his sermon when 
he found sufficient encouragement in the state of his audience : 
" After a short prayer, he called for all the distressed persons 
(who were about 20) into the foremost seats. Then he came 
out of the pulpit, and stripped off* his upper garments, and got 
into the seats, and leaped up and down some time, and clapped 



SECT. 1.] S0T7TH0LD. 149 

his hands, and cried out in these words, ■ The war goes on, 
the fight goes on, the Devil goes down, the Devil goes down,' 
and then betook himself to stamping and screaming most 
dreadfully." 

Although this deluded man did not enact his wildest ex- 
travagances in the churches of the island ; yet even here, his 
labours were productive of many unhappy results. Dissen- 
tions and divisions were produced in many congregations, the 
effects of which are visible at the present day. And although 
some good was done and souls were hopefully converted, yet 
many prejudices against the work of grace were excited, and 
the enemies of the cross emboldened to blaspheme. 

It is due to the memory of Mr. Davenport to add, that af- 
ter pursuing this disorderly course for a few years, he became 
deeply sensible of the error of his ways, and published to the 
world an ingenuous confession ; in which he acknowledges 
that " he had been influenced by a false spirit, in judging min- 
isters ; in exhorting their people to forsake their ministry ; in 
making impulses a rule of conduct ; in encouraging lay-ex- 
horters ; and in disorderly singing in the streets." He speaks 
of burning the books and clothes at New-London, as matter 
for deep and lasting humiliation ; and prays, that God would 
guard him from such errors in future, and stop the progress 
of those who had been corrupted by his word and example. 
This latter petition was not granted. He found that a care- 
less child, or a reckless idiot could easily kindle a fire, that a 
thousand able bodied men .could not control or extinguish. 
In such a world as this, it is much easier to do mischief, than 
to arrest its progress or prevent its consequences. And mul- 
titudes, who have once been set in motion, by one master- 
spirit, will continue to pursue their devious paths, and even 
denounce their leader, when he, convinced of his errors, be- 
gins to retrace his steps and attempts to lead them back to 
the path of duty. 

Dr. Miller justly remarks, that " this case ought not only 
to be recorded, but to be kept before the public mind, as a 
salutary warning." Beside this, it forms an important ele- 
ment in the history of the Long Island churches. 



150 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

Section 2.— RIVERHEAD. 

Number of acres improved - - - - 12,802 
" " unimproved - - - 24,19S 

Ratio of population to the acre, 1 to 15. 

This is the County town of Suffolk, bounded on the north 
by the Sound — on the east by Southold — on the south by Pe- 
conick Bay and River, and on the west by Brookhaven. The 
Court House is situated at the head of the Bay, near the south 
line of the town ; and, till within a few years, was encircled 
by one continuous forest, with only a small cluster of houses 
in sight. It was one of the most cheerless landscapes that 
could meet the eye ; having not a single bright point, except 
the stream of water flowing through the sand ; nor any ave- 
nue to a fairer prospect, except a small opening in the woods 
produced by the head of the Bay. 

The whole township is one of the most sterile in the coun- 
ty — only one third of its territory being capable of repaying 
the labor of cultivation. For 150 years it constituted a part 
of Southold, and was made a separate town by an Act of 
the Legislature, dated March 13th, 1792. 

A settlement was commenced here, as early as 1090, by 
John Griffin and others, who erected a grist-mill, on the mouth 
of the River ; but the increase of the inhabitants was very 
small for more than a century. In 1804, after this spot had 
been the seat of justice for the County almost 80 years, Dr. 
Dwight describes it as " a miserable hamlet containing about 
10 or 12 houses," and " the Court House, a poor, decayed 
building." 

The days of modern improvement have wrought a consider- 
able change here, as elsewhere. The village has been laid 
out into streets, and a large accession to the buildings, both 
public and private, has been made ; till it presents quite an 
imposing appearance. Besides the Court House, three 
Churches and an Academy, there are about 70 private dwell- 
ings, and the village contains nearly 400 inhabitants. 

This village being of very recent origin, no public buildings, 
except the Court House, were erected here, till within a few 
years. When this County was first formed, the Courts were 
held at Southampton and Southold. 

In 1725 a Court House and Jail were erected here ; and 
from that time, this has been the shire-town. It was former- 
ly a sorry looking building, of contracted dimensions. The 



SECT. 2.] RIVERHEAD. 151 

Court and Jury rooms, and the cells for prisoners, were under 
the same roof. Within a few years, the Court House was 
remodeled and repaired ; and a prison separate from the Hall 
of Justice erected. 

No house appropriated to religious worship, nor even a 
church organization existed here till some 12 years ago. Pre- 
viously to that time, occasional preaching by ministers of dif- 
ferent denominations, was held in the Court Room. 

In 1830, the Methodists commenced regular preaching here, 
and in 1833, a society of 9 members was constituted. A 
house of worship, 34 by 42 feet, was erected in 1834, and 
dedicated in the following year. The number of members is 
now about 100. 

A Congregational Church was organised in Oct. 1834, 
consisting of 39 members, who formed part of a secession 
from the church of Upper Aquebogue, which will be more 
particularly noticed hereafter. They were first supplied by 
the Rev. Mr. Moser, until the spring of 1836. A Female 
Seminary, erected in 1835, afforded a convenient place of 
worship, which they occupied for several years. From May 
1836, Mr. Gilbert supplied this church for one year, when he 
was succeeded by the Rev. Charles I. Knowles ; who removed 
in 1844, and was succeeded in the spring of 1845, by the Rev. 
Mr. Brooks, who is now labouring here. This congregation 
is feeo.o and has been aided several years, by the Home Mis- 
sionary Society. 

In 1831, Elijah Terry, a respectable resident of this village, 
embraced the doctrine of Emmanuel Swedenborg and united 
himself with the New Jerusalem Church at Bating Hollow. 
On the 12th of May 1839, a church of this order, consisting 
of 10 members, was organised in this village. Their place of 
meeting is a comfortable building, which they have erected for 
the twofold purpose of public worship and a select school ; 
both of which receive a very limited patronage. Until the 
past year, they have never enjoyed the stated labours of a min- 
ister ; but since Nov. 1844, a Mr. Carll has divided his ser- 
vices between this place and Bating Hollow. Their present 
number of members is 9. 

In regard to the morals of the village, there has been a very 
manifest improvement, within a few years, especially in regard 
to temperance, and the sanctification of the sabbath. There 
are few places in the land, in which the efforts of the friends 
of temperance have been crowned with more triumphant sue- 



152 ANNALS OP THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

cess. Most of the Hotels or Taverns are conducted on tem- 
perance principles. 

From the Annual Report of the Temperance Society of 
this village, it appears that the quantity of liquor sold in the 
first year of its existence, was reduced from 3,600 to 900 gal- 
lons ; and in the next year, down to 600. Can a more favour- 
able account be given of any other shire-town in the state ? 

Upper Aquebogne. — This is a continuous settlement, the 
centre of which is about three miles north-easterly, as you 
proceed from the Court House, down the northern branch of 
the island. It forms the largest parish in the town ; and al- 
though its religious history is comprized within the last one 
hundred years, its commencement is veiled in great ob- 
scurity. 

The present Congregational Church was organised, March 
26th, 1758, by the Rev. Elisha Paine, pastor of the Separate 
Church of Bridgehampton ; and consisted of 16 members. 
A house of worship, in dimensions 24 by 33 feet, had been 
previously erected, on the burying-ground, nearly opposite the 
present church. The first interment in that ground was 
made in 1755, and it is supposed that the church had been 
previously erected. 

From an old record, still extant, though deficient in dates 
and other particulars, it seems probable, that a church had 
previously existed here, to which a Mr. Lee had ministered, 
and that it was under Presbyterian organization. It is also 
said that the Rev. Timothy Symmes supplied it for some years, 
preceding the middle of the last century. But when he 
came, and how long he remained, are equally unknown. He 
must have left the island, as early as 1746, as he was the pas- 
tor of Connecticut Farms and New Providence, N. J., from 
that year to 1750. During that period, his name appears in 
the records of the Synod, as a member of the Presbytery 
of New York. 

The church organised in 1758, evidently grew out of the 
separation produced by Mr. Davenport's operations, in these 
eastern towns. In no part of the island, was that spirit more 
rife, or attended with more permanent consequences. The 
lower parish had been much agitated and divided by the new 
measures introduced among them. In April, 1749, "the dif- 
ficulties that for sometime past had subsisted among the peo- 
ple of Aquebogue," say the Presbytery of Suffolk, " were laid 
before that body-" And after hearing the case set forth " by 



SECT. 2.] RIVERHEAD. 153 

each party" a letter was sent to the congregation "containing 
a Christian reprehension of what had been contrary to the 
order of the gospel ; and an exhortation to labour after a for- 
giving and peaceable spirit, one towards another." 

Here it is easy to discover the origin of the subsequent 
separation, and new organization, which took place a few 
years afterwards. 

The old church edifice at Upper Aquebogue remained till 
within the recollection of not a few, who are still living. In 
1797, a new church 30 by 42 feet, was erected, on the oppo- 
site side of the street. It had full galleries, and would ac- 
commodate a large assembly. In 1833, it was remodeled, 
and, excepting the frame, entirely rebuilt, with the addition 
of a steeple, which is furnished with a bell. It is now univer- 
sally known throughout the town and vicinitv as the " Steeple 
Church." 

Since the above was written, a respected correspondent, to 
whom the writer is indebted for many facts in the history of 
this town, says, in relation to the previous organization, " I 
have since learned that it was a Presbyterian church, and 
that Mr. Lee was the minister." It is probable that Mr. 
Symmes preceded this individual. 

Ministers. 

The Rev. Timothy Wells was the first pastor of this church. 
He was ordained Oct. 25th, 1759, by Mr. Paine of Bridg- 
hampton, and Mr. Marshall of Canterbury, Conn. He died 
at Cutchogue, Jan. 15th, 1783, aged 62. " He was an unedu- 
cated man,1 but one of considerable talent, and of deep and 
ardent piety." 

The Rev. Daniel Youngs was called March 28th, 1782, 
and was ordained in the following year, by the Strict Cong. 
Convention of Conn. He and Mr. Wells, his predecessor, 
were both natives of the parish, and were trained up in the 
exercise of their gifts, in their native church. Mr. Youngs 
had been preaching, for several years preceding his call to 
this charge. He was a man of considerable powers and 
influence. " He was at the head of his own denomination 
on the island. Considering his limited advantages for prepar- 
atory studies, he eminently excelled. His reasoning powers 
were strong. His language, though not always in accord- 
ance with the niceties of grammatical precision, was, never- 
. theless, forcible and often sublime. His eloquence was some- 
times bold and awful." He died in 1814 at the age of 70 years. 

7 # 



154 ANNALS OP THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

The Rev. Moses Sweezy succeeded Mr. Youngs, in 1815. 
He was a native of Brookhaven, but had spent his early life 
in this parish, and first united with this church. In 1SC8, he 
was ordained by the L. I. Convention, pastor of a church in 
New Jersey. He died January 28th, 1^26, aged 55 years. 

From September, 1826 to 1827, the church was supplied 
by the Rev. Thomas Edwards, from England, and from 
1827 to 1831, by the Rev. Evan Evans, from Wales. Both 
of these gentlemen held their ecclesiastical connexion with 
the New York Association. From 1831 to '34 this church 
was supplied by the Rev. Parshall Terry, from '34 to '37 by 
the Rev. John Gibbs, from '37 to '40, by the Rev. William 
Lyall ; and from 1840 by the Rev. Thomas Harris, who is 
still employed. 

The history of this church records more than a dozen spe- 
cial seasons of revival, since the year 1783. The present 
number of communicants is 275. The church having with- 
drawn from the Long Island Convention now occupies strictly 
independent ground. 

Lower Aquebogne. — The first church edifice, within the pre- 
sent limits of this town, was doubtless erected in this parish, 
about 6 miles north east of the Court house. It was built in 
1731. A church had probably been organised a short time 
before this ; of which the Rev. Nathaniel Mather is supposed 
to have been the first pastor. From the private record pre- 
viously referred to, Mr. Mather's ordination is said to have 
taken place May 22d, 1728. No place is mentioned, but as 
he afterwards appears to have been the pastor of this church, 
at the organization of the Presbytery of Suffolk, and his name 
occurs in connexion with no other congregation, it may be 
inferred, that he was originally settled here. He died March 
20th, 1748. 

In April 1749, the Presbytery having licensed Mr. John 
Darbee, appointed him to preach in this congregation, and at 
Mattituck, which he continued to do for two years. In the 
course of his first year, however, a complaint was brought, 
by certain disaffected individuals, against " Mr. Darbee's 
preaching and private conversation," which, after a careful 
investigation by the Presbytery, was judged to be without 
foundation. Mr. D. subsequently laboured in other congrega- 
tions, and was ordained as an evangelist, Nov. 10th, 1757, at 
Oysterponds, at the time of Mr. Barber's ordination. 



SECT. 2.] RIVERHEAD. 155 

It has been previously stated, in the history of Mattituck, 
that at the ordination of Mr. Parks, June 10th, 1752, the 
two churches were united, and continued under his charge till 
February 11th, 1756 : and for a number of years after, under 
the Rev. Nehemiah Barker. He afterwards restricted his la- 
bours to Mattituck, and the congregation of Aquebogue was 
left to its own resources. 

The Rev. Benjamin Goldsmith was ordained pastor of this 
church June 27th, 1764. After thirteen years devoted- ex- 
clusively to this congregation, a re-union with Mattituck was 
formed, and he continued in charge of both, till his death, 
Nov. 19th, 1810, in the 75th year of his age. 

At the time of his settlement, it would seem, that the church 
was exceedingly reduced. At the first church meeting, after 
his installation, only 4 members attended, and only 17 
at the first communion. There were several seasons of re- 
freshing, during his ministry, particularly in 1801-2 and 
1808-9. The whole number added to the church was 94 
— baptised 771, marriages 380, and he attended ^86 funerals. 

The writer had but a partial acquaintance with Mr. Gold- 
smith, and he gives the following notice of him furnished by 
one of his successors. 

" He was a man of sound mind, solid acquirements, plain 
and unostentatious in his manners and habits — exceedingly 
diffident of his own powers, " given to hospitality," and of 
unfeigned piety. His theological views were of the New 
England stamp. His favourite authors, Edwards. Bellamy 
and Hopkins. Henry's Commentary was his daily compan- 
ion. His sermons were unusually well conceived, plain, 
scriptural, instructive ; and his manner solemn and affection- 
ate. He was eminently happy in the influence he exerted, 
to preserve the peace and unity of the church, and the edifi- 
cation of the body of Christ. Christians were of one mind, 
and more intelligent and devout than now. The old-fashion- 
ed " conference-meeting" was well sustained, during Mr. 
Goldsmith's ministry. The members assembled once a week, 
usually at the pastor's house, to discuss, in a familiar man- 
ner, some passage of scripture previously assigned. Some 
gave their views orally ; others in writing. This meeting 
was a school" of Theology. The members being familiar 
with the best standard works, would refer to, and quote them 
with the utmost readiness and accuracy. They became, to 
use one of the common words of that day, soundly " indoctri- 



156 ANNALS OP THE TOWNf. [PART 2, 

nated." And they were the Aarons and Hurs, to uphold and 
aid their minister, in every good word and work. Would 
that the school might be revived, and that love of the truth 
might once more take the place of a desire to hear or tell 
some new thing. In those days, the children in the common 
schools were accustomed to recite the Shorter Catechism, on 
Saturday of each week ; and Mr. Goldsmith usually attended 
to the recitation, accompanying it with suitable counsels, ex- 
hortation and prayer. It was a pastoral visitation, regarded 
with favour by all. The teacher desired it — the children 
were gratified with it — public sentiment not merely approved, 
but required it. How changed the times !" 

The Rev. Benjamin Bailey succeeded, as the next regular 
pastor of this church. He was ordained by the Presbytery 
of Long Island, Nov. 6th, 1811, and dismissed May 1 8th, 
1816. After his dismission he removed and settled in the 
western part of the state, where he is still living without 
charge. 

The Rev. Nathaniel Reeve was employed here from 1817, 
to 1823. 

Since that time, excepting one year occupied by the Rev. 
Jonathan Unfitting, and two years by Mr. Gilbert, as stated 
in the annals of Mattituck, the Rev. Abraham Luce has been 
and still continues the stated supply of these two congregations 
under the name of Union Parish. 

Jamesport is a small settlement of recent origin, a short 
mile south of the last mentioned parish, and 6 miles below 
Riverhead. It owes its origin to the speculation-fever of 
1835-6, in the bosom of a single individual, who ruined him- 
self by the operation. In 1833, there was not a single human 
habitation here, now some 40. The object of erecting the 
village was for the purposes of navigation, and a whaling ship 
or two are sent out from the port ; but being situated at the 
extreme point of ship navigation on the Peconick Bay, the 
harbour difficult of access, and the channel constantly dimin- 
ishing in depth, there is no reason to anticipate any great 
enlargement. It has made no advance of late years. 

A Methodist society has been formed here, which consists 
of 45 members. They worship in a building erected at the 
commencement of the settlement for a school-house, or place 
of worship, as need might require. 

Northvillc, is a small settlement, on the north side of the 
island, about 2 miles from Upper Aquebogue. The church 
here owes its origin to a secession from the church of Upper 



SECT. 2. J RIVERHEAD. 157 

Aquebogue in 1829 ; on account of dissatisfaction with the 
minister employed by the majority, and the adoption of " a 
revised Confession of Faith and Covenant." Sixty members, 
adhering to the Confession and Covenant of 1758, withdrew, 
and set up separate worship, claiming to be the " First Strict 
Congregational Church of Riverhead." In 1831, they erect- 
ed a church edifice, 32 by 42 feet, which was located about 
a mile south west of the former, and within 2 miles of the 
Court House. From the time of their separation to 1S34, 
they were supplied successively by the Rev. Christopher 
Youngs, Mr. Fuller, the Rev. Nehemiah B. Cook, and the 
Rev. Mr. Moser, the last two being connected with the L. I. 
Presbytery. In the fall of 1831, the church was favoured 
with a refreshing season, and more than 20 were added to its 
communion. 

In 1834, under the conviction, that the interests of religion 
required some special exertions to rear a church at Riverhead, 
this society agreed to divide, and form two congregations — 
the one at Northville, and the other at the village of River- 
head. The church was removed to Northville, that portion 
of the congregation paying a stipulated sum to the other, for 
the purpose of erecting a house of worship near the Court 
House. 

In the winter of 1834-5, the Northville church was supplied 
by the Rev. Jonathan Huntting, and from 1835 to '39, by the 
Rev. Abraham Luce, both of whom were members of the 
Presbytery. 

The Rev. William Hodge supplied them from 1839 to 1841. 
He united with the L. I. Convention in April, 1840, having 
previously been a baptist minister. He died Jan. 17th 1843. 
Mr. James Smith, a Presbyterian licentiate succeeded Mr. 
Hodge until the spring of 1845. 

This congregation is small, consisting of about 40 families, 
and the church numbers 130 communicants. It is strictly 
independent, having no connection with Presbytery, Associa- 
tion or Convention. 

Bating- Hollow is a small parish about 6 miles west of 
Northville on the same north road. The settlement was 
commenced as early as 1719, but no house of worship was 
erected till 1803. At that time, a building, 26 by 30 feet, 
was reared. 

A church, consisting of 7 or 8 members was organised here 
in 1792, under the style of the " Third Strict Congregational 
Church of Riverhead." In Aug. 1793, the L. I. Convention 



158 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

ordained the Rev. Manfoy Wells pastor, who died May 8th, 
1802, in the 55th year of age. The Rev. Nathan Dickinson 
succeeded, but at what date and how long he remained is not 
ascertained. In Aug. 1820 the Rev. David Benjamin was 
ordained here, by the Convention, and is still living. This 
parish is small, including only about 30 families. 

In 1813 or '14, a member of this church by the name of 
Horton, imbibed the doctrines of Emmanuel Svvedenborg ; 
and in 1815, set up a separate place of worship. In 1831, a 
New Jerusalem Church was organized, consisting of 13 mem- 
bers. In 1839 a house of worship, 24 by 36 feet, was erected ; 
but until quite recently Mr. Horton has been the principal 
conductor of their services. Since Nov. 1844, the Rev. M. M. 
Carll has been employed here, a part of the time. From 15 
to 20 families attend, and the present number of members 
is 24. 

Wading River is situated at the northwest corner of the 
town of Riverhead, directly on the line, so that about one half 
of the settlement is within the limits of Brookhaven. The 
church is only a few yards east of the line. 

It is not known definitely, at what time the first house of 
worship was erected ; but it is supposed to have been about 
the middle of the last century. About that time, at the re- 
quest of the people, the Presbytery of Suffolk repeatedly ap- 
pointed supplies at this place, and it is confidently asserted, by 
some, that the first church organised here, was Presbyterian. 

The first building was nearly square, being 26 by 28 feet. 
It stood till 1837, when a new and very neat edifice 33 by 42 
feet, was erected, with a steeple and bell. 

The parish consists of about 60 families, and what is re- 
markable, they are all, without exception, of one denomina- 
tion. 

A church of 8 or 9 members was organised here, in 1785, 
by the Rev. Daniel Youngs, with the style of the " Second 
Strict Cong. Church of Riverhead," and its delegate was pre- 
sent and took part in the formation of the L. I. Convention, 
in 1791. 

The Rev. Jacob Corwin, who had preached here a number 
of years, was ordained as their pastor, by the Convention, 
in Nov. 1787. He was dismissed in 1800, and died Sept. 
20th, 1833, in the 88th year of his age. 

He was succeeded by his nephew, the Rev. David Wells. 
He had been licensed by the Convention in 18U2, and was 
ordained at this place, in 1809. He died Sept 12th, 1821, 
in hia 4§th year. 



SECT. 2.] RIVERHEAD. 159 

" After the death of Mr. Wells, the church were only oc- 
casionally supplied with preaching from the ministers of the 
L. I. Convention, until Nov. 11th, 1881, when the Rev. Par- 
shall Terry was employed for one half the time, or every 
other sabbath. Mr. Terry closed his labours with them, May 
1832, and was succeeded by the Rev. Elizur W. Griswold, 
a member of the Convention, who continued his labours for 
one half of the time, until May 1834." Mr. Griswold had 
been received by the Convention from the " Methodist Socie- 
ty/' and afterwards united with the " Protestant Methodists." 

The Rev. Christopher Youngs commenced labouring herein 
the spring of 1835, and continued till 1841. 

The Rev. John H. Thomas, supplied this people for 18 
months, from 1842. 

Since his removal they have had only occasional supplies 
for a few months, and are at present entirely vacant. They 
have had no settled pastor since the death of Mr. Wells in 
1821. 

In the early settlement of this place, through the benevo- 
lence of some individuals, though the history of the transaction 
appears to be well nigh lost, this congregation became possess- 
ed of a large tract of land, which it is said, would now be 
worth $20,000. In former days, however, it was considered 
of small value, and was therefore disposed of with little dis- 
cretion, till it is now reduced to the value of about $3,000. 
It may be a matter of surprise that a congregation thus en- 
dowed, and united in their religious views, should be willing 
to live with such an irregular supply of the means of grace. 

Summary. In this town, there are 10 distinct religious or- 
ganizations, and as many houses of worship, viz., 1 Presby- 
terian, 5 Congregational or Independent, 2 Methodist, and 2 
Swedenborgians. 



The territory included in this town, being formerly a part 
of Southold, was a principal seat of those churches, which 
were organised in affinity with the Separate Churches of New- 
England. Both there and here, they remained for many 
years, in a strictly independent form. But, in process of time, 
those churches in Connecticut, with their ministers, formed 
an ecclesiastical organization under the style of the " Strict 
Congregational Convention of Connecticut ;" and in 1781, 
they published a " Confession of Faith and Form of Govern- 
ment," which was republished on Long Island in 1823. In 



160 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

connexion with this, they gave a " brief history of their sepa- 
ration from the Standing Order," and an account of the or- 
ganization of their first church, and the ordination of its first 
minister. In the same pamphlet they set forth the reasons of 
their separation, and " some of the errors that attended" that 
event. 

On the 26th of August, 1791, a similar organization was 
formed at Upper Aquebogue, in this town, under the style of 
" The Strict Congregational Convention of Long Island" The 
original members were the Rev. Messrs. Daniel Youngs — Ja- 
cob Corwin and Noah Hallock, (all of whom had been ordain- 
ed by the Connecticut Convention ;) with delegates from the 
churches of Aquebogue and Wading River. This body has 
received or ordained between 20 and 30 ministers, and have 
formed a number of additional churches, in various towns in 
Suffolk County, and in the northern parts of the state of New 
Jersey. The Connecticut Convention, it is believed, has been 
extinct for many years, as the L. I. Convention was called 
upon, in 1817, to ordain a pastor for the church at Lyme, Ct., 
who held his connexion with this body, till his death. This 
Convention has continued its existence till the present year, 
though at the time of the organization of the L. I. Associa- 
tion, it was reduced to a single ministerial member. 

These churches have always been the friends of evangeli- 
cal religion, and have been favoured with many interesting 
and powerful revivals of religion. 

Asperities of feeling, naturally engendered by circumstances 
that have been hinted at, kept these ministers and churches 
and those of the Presbyterian order, aloof from each other for 
a considerable length of time. But contiguity of situation 
and occasional intercourse -in the social and religious relations 
of life, gradually allayed these feelings, and ultimately led to 
the suggestion of something like an interchange of ministe- 
rial labour. Accordingly April 10th, 1793, the Presbytery of 
Long Island " approved of those ministers being invited to 
preach occasionally, by any of the ministers of their body who 
should think it expedient." Two ministers and their elders, 
from the western part of the island, protested against this 
vote. 

In the review of this record in 1794, the Synod of New- 
York, in their vote of approval, made an exception to " the 
determination of that Presbytery to invite certain gentlemen to 
preach in their pulpits, with respect to whom there was no 
evidence that they had been introduced into the ministry, in 



SECT. 3.] SHELTER ISLAND. 161 

such a way as ought to be approved." And '* the Synod re- 
commended to the Presbytery of Long Island to reconsider 
their determination on this subject." In the following year, 
the Presbytery reported, that " they had proceeded according 
to the recommendation of the Synod, to reconsider their reso- 
lutions, as to the admission of certain men occasionally to 
preach in their pulpits ; and having spent some time in delibe- 
rating upon it, could not find sufficient reason to reverse their 
judgment upon this subject, at present." 

This interchange of ministerial labour was kept up, with 
mutual satisfaction, for a number of years ; till in 1807, it 
was interrupted, by the reception into the Convention, of a 
member of the Presbytery, who had fled from discipline ; but 
in 1812, suitable satisfaction having been given, harmony was 
restored, and has remained uninterrupted to the present time. 

It may be added that the Long Island Convention, at its 
meeting in April last was, by consent of the members, dis- 
solved, and each left to seek such ecclesiastical connexion as 
he might choose. At that time, it consisted of six ministers 
and four churches. 



[Section 3.— SHELTER ISLAND. 

Number of acres improved, - - - - 4,836 

" " " unimproved, - - - 5,164* 
Ratio of population to the acre, 1 to 20. 

The situation of this island, lying in the Great Bay, between 
the two eastern branches of Long Island, has fyeen previously 
described. 

The Indian name, like most aboriginal words is variously 
written. But its most common form is Manhansack-aha-qua- 
shu-wornock, which is said to mean, *' an island sheltered by 
islands" The tribe of Indians, that occupied it, bore the 
name of Manhassetts. 

Its surface is very peculiarly formed, by alternate hills 
and hollows, so that there is scarcely a single acre of level 

* This number in Burr's Atlas is 15,164, which is manifestly an error ; 
and was probably designed for the number above stated. But even this 
is larger lhan the common estimate. It has always been understood, that 
the area of this island does not exceed 9,000 acres, at which the ratio of 
the population is stated above. 



162 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

land, throughout its whole extent. Some of the intervals 
between the hills are complete basins, and are occupied by 
swamps. A few of the elevations on the north and west are 
supposed to be one hundred feet in height, and afford a very- 
extensive prospect of both land and water. Its large fresh 
pond has been previously mentioned, (p. 35.) 

There are many rocks distributed on the shores ; and 
one of immense bulk, at a considerable elevation, on the 
north-western part of the island. 

The date of its settlement is generally fixed at 1652 ; but it 
remained nearly 80 years after that time,an appendageof the 
town of Southold. In 1730, it was first organised as a distinct 
municipality ; but the ecclesiastical relations of the people 
with that town remained even beyond that period. 

Churches. 

It is difficult to ascertain the exact date of the erection of 
the first house of worship ; but it is supposed to have been 
somewhere near the middle of the last century. It was built 
under the supervision of Brindlcy Sylvester, who was the 
principal proprietor of the island. He died in December, 
1752, as appears from his funeral sermon, which was preached 
by the Rev. Mr. Troop of Southold from Prov. xi. 17; and 
was printed at Boston. At his death, Mr. Sylvester be- 
queathed to the congregation one hundred pounds, New York 
currency, to aid in the support of the gospel. At a subse- 
quent period, Benjamin Conkling, who died February 21st, 
1826, bequeathed to the church and congregation, a large 
portion of his property, for the same object. 

The first house was in a central position, and remained 
with little alteration, except from the hand of time, till 1816, 
when it was demolished, and the present edifice erected in its 
place, which was dedicated July 17th, 1817. 

In the erection of this house, the congregation were assisted 
by subscriptions from abroad. " Several gentlemen in New 
York city contributed liberally, and Col. Rutgers presented 
the pulpit, that was taken out of the Rutgers' street church, 
which was so very high and ill constructed as to have been 
an equal annoyance to preachers and people, for the space of 
twenty-five years. It has, however, been removed, in the 
year past, and a neat and convenient one erected in its 
place, which gives universal satisfaction." 

There is no evidence of the existence of an organised 



SECT. 3.] SHELTER ISLAND. 163 

church on this island, before the present century. It is gene- 
rally believed that there was none. The congregation was 
incorporated under the statute of the State, in 1787, and the 
earliest organization of a church, of which there is any re- 
cord, was made September 28th, 1808. It consisted of 15 
members, and adopted the congregational form of govern- 
ment, which it retained till March 27th, 1812, when it was 
received under the care of the Presbytery of Long Island. 

Ministers. 

It is a singular fact, that this town has never enjoyed the 
labours of a settled pastor. The first preacher, of whom there 
is any positive information was the Rev. William Adams, 
who resided in the family of Brindley Sylvester before his 
death ; and afterwards in the family of his son-in-law, Col. 
Thomas Bering. He is supposed to have laboured here, 
though not constantly, for the space of thirty years. He 
was here in 1764, as appears from a letter from Whitefield, 
that will be given in the sequel. 

What other ministers supplied this congregation, during 
the remainder of that century, is not known. 

The Rev. Daniel Hall immediately after his dismission 
from Sag Harbour removed to this island in April, 1806 ; 
where he laboured till the close of his life. He died January 
12th, 1812. His death was occasioned by tetanus, induced 
by the amputation of a cancerous foot. 

For a number of years after Mr. Hall's decease, this church 
was destitute of any stated preaching. Since that time, it 
has been supplied at different intervals, by different individu- 
als, among whom were the Rev. Messrs. Ezra Youngs, Jona- 
than Huntting, Daniel M. Lord, Randolph Campbell, William 
Ingmire, and Anson Sheldon, who is their present supply. Of 
these, except the last, the Rev. Mr. Huntting laboured the 
longest among them ; and at a period, when the church and 
congregation were struggling with difficulties. Mr. Sheldon 
commenced his labours in the spring of 1842. 

It is worthy of remark that this little church, though des- 
titute a great part of the time of a preached gospel, were in 
the habit, when denied this privilege, of meeting together re- 
gularly, on the Sabbath day, for social worship ; in which 
they usually had a sermon read. And although we have no 
record, in their early history, of any powerful revival of re- 
ligion, yet there were " more or less accessions to the church 
almost every year." It is supposed, however, that the island 



164 ANNALS OP THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

participated, with the surrounding towns, in the great awaken- 
ing of 1741-2, and again in 1764. 

The first distinguished work of grace, of which we have 
distinct knowledge, was in 1816. It commenced in January, 
and continued through that and the two following months. 
At this time, the church was vacant, and depended for help, 
entirely on the neighbouring ministers. The names of 
Wool-worth and Phillips, among the dead, and Huntting 
among the living, are mentioned as aiding, by their labours 
of love, this work of God. During this interesting season, 
between 40 and 50 are supposed to have become the sub- 
jects of renewing grace; of whom 37 were added to the 
Church in the course of that year. 

Since that time, there have been several seasons of refresh- 
ing, in which Christians have been revived, and some en- 
couraging accessions made to their number. Under Mr. 
Huntting's labours, 10 or 12 ; and under Mr. Campbell's 
ministry of three years, 26 persons were admitted to the 
communion of the church. During the last three years, 
under the ministry of the present stated supply, 1 1 indi- 
viduals have been received. 

Since the organization of this church, about 200 persons 
have been admitted to membership ; of whom about two-thirds 
are now numbered with the dead. A single individual of the 
original members survives. 

By the generous bequest previously mentioned, this con- 
gregation is possessed of a fund, principally in money at inter- 
est, to the amount of more than $8,000. And this presents 
a fact in the history of this parish, that also exists in several 
other congregations on the northern branch of Long Island, 
which has too intimate a relation to their spiritual interests, to 
be passed over in silence. 

It seems to have been a favourite plan with the fathers of 
some of these towns, to provide funds for the support of the 
gospel, independent of the voluntary contributions of the peo- 
ple, from year to year. Hence, by their own subscriptions, 
in the course of their lives, and by bequests at death, such a 
fund exists in the congregations of Wading River, Cut- 
chogue, Southold and Orient, which in the aggregate, including 
that of Shelter Island, amounts to more than tliirty thousand 
dollars. In almost all these congregations, the annual income 
from this source, is nearly equal to the support usually made for 
the ministry among them ; without any contribution from the 
people. It might, at first view, be supposed that while they 



SECT. 3.] SHELTER ISLAND. 165 

have been in this favoured situation, they must have experi- 
enced no difficulty, in sustaining the institutions of the gos- 
pel. And yet, if we carefully review the history of these 
parishes, for the last sixty or seventy years, we shall find it 
difficult to produce an example, from any other quarter, 
where the ordinances of religion have been less permanently 
enjoyed, or where the enervating and ruinous system of 
stated supplies by annual contracts, has been more exten- 
sively practised. One of these churches, we have seen, has 
never had a settled pastor ; another, only one ; two others 
have depended on stated supplies, for the last twenty years : 
and the most favoured one, the old parish of Southold, has en- 
joyed the labours of a pastor, but a little more than half the 
time, for the last sixty years. And this is the only Presbyte- 
rian or Congregational church, (out of thirteen,) in the three 
towns of Riverhead, Southold and Shelter Island, that has a 
settled pastor, at the present time. 

Such facts as these render it questionable, whether it is de- 
sirable for a congregation to have the means of supporting 
the gospel within themselves, and independent of their indivi- 
dual contributions. There is a foundation in the constitution 
of the human mind, at least, as it is perverted by sin, to es- 
teem that of little value, which costs little or nothing, and gene- 
ral observation and experience attest, that congregations usu- 
ally exhibit an interest in attending on the privileges of the 
gospel, in proportion to the exertions and sacrifices, which 
they make to sustain them. 

In addition to this, dissentions and painful divisions are apt 
to arise in endowed congregations. Allusion is not made 
here, to those differences of opinion and discussions, which 
are liable to take place, about the economical management of 
the funds. These, though sometimes unpleasant and product- 
ive of evil, are small compared with others of a more serious 
character. When such a parish becomes divided in opinion, 
on the employment of a minister, or any other question deep- 
ly involving their spiritual prosperity, there are not the same 
motives, as under other circumstances, to induce them to 
unanimity. A majority is under very strong temptations to 
disregard the feelings and rights of the minority, and to feel, 
if they do not say — " We do not need your help— we have 
the means of carrying out our wishes, in our hands — you may 
come to church, or stay at home, or go elsewhere, as you 
please." Instances are not wanting, in which a congrega- 



166 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

tion, rich in funds, have dwindled down to a small number of 
hearers. 

There is yet another consideration. The possession of 
large funds is apt to produce an unhappy influence on the be- 
nevolence of a congregation. As a general rule, it will be 
found true, that those individuals and parishes, which are the 
most generous in supporting the gospel at home, out of their 
own pockets, are the most liberal in contributing to every be- 
nevolent and christian enterprise. The congregations, from 
which the most uniform and substantial aid is derived, to 
send the blessings of the gospel to the ends of the earth, are 
not usually those which have public funds to support divine 
institutions among themselves. Nor are the individuals who 
are most forward in this work, generally those who abound 
in wealth. But they are those whose charity, by beginning 
at home, has learned to walk abroad, and scatter blessings 
wherever it goes. 

For these and other reasons, it is confidently believed, that 
the spiritual interests of these, or any other congregations simi- 
larly situated, would have been in a better condition, if they had 
never possessed a dollar's worth of property, beyond their 
church, parsonage, and burying-ground, that they find them- 
selves, at the present time. 

The reader will pardon this digression. The facts belong 
to the history of these churches : the remarks which they 
have elicited are believed to be important and worthy of con- 
sideration. But, there is yet another evil involved in this 
connexion, which deserves notice. While some of the con- 
gregations of Long Island have no parsonage-house for the ac- 
commodation of a minister's family, others are possessed of a 
large farm, by the cultivation of which, they expect a minis- 
ter to obtain a large portion of his support. Both of these 
are evils — but the latter, much greater than the former. It 
oftentimes contributes to the speedy settlement of a minister, 
when a congregation have, at their command, a comfortable 
house for his accommodation ; the want of which, in some 
instances, when every thing else appeared favourable, has 
prevented his stay. And as ministers are not apt to abound 
in carnal things, such a provision preserves them from the 
embarrassment of providing their own tenement ; or the great- 
er inconvenience of a removal from one dwelling to another 
from year to year. Besides, in this day, when the pastoral 
relation has become so frail, it is peculiarly undesirable that 
ministers should be the owners of real estate, in the congre- 






SECT. 3.] SHELTER ISLAND. 167 

gations of their charge. Instances might be adduced, in 
which it was evidently for the interests of both minister and 
people that they should separate ; and yet the nominal union 
was continued from year to year, with constantly increasing 
dissatisfaction, from no other cause than that he owned a 
house, and they were unwilling to purchase it, at a fair 
price. By this very means, many a congregation has been 
materially weakened, if not absolutely destroyed. 

But the other arrangement is a still greater evil. When a 
congregation call a minister " to watch for their souls," and 
then impose upon him the necessity of becoming a farmer, 
and labouring with his own hands to obtain his daily bread ; 
and that too, on land that is already worn out, because its 
successive occupants have had no inducement to manure and 
improve the ground, that may pass the next year into other 
hands, he must surely starve, or else betray the vows im- 
posed by his holy calling. 

This evil is not obviated by an agreement which is some- 
times made on the part of the people, to perform all the labour 
on the parsonage farm. For, even in this case the superin- 
tendence must lie on the minister's mind, which must neces- 
sarily divert him from his appropriate duties. On this point, 
the arrangements of the Levitical economy, though not binding 
in form, being founded in immutable principles, are full of in- 
struction. A liberal provision for the priesthood was made, 
independent of their' personal labour on the soil. And in the 
division of the land of promise we find this record, " But unto 
the tribe of Levi, Moses gave not any inheritance : The 
Lord God of Israel was their inheritance, as he said unto 
them." Josh. xiii. 33. And it is added, " Therefore, they 
gave no part unto the Levites, in the land, save cities to 
dwell in, with their suburbs for their cattle, and for their sub- 
stance." Chap. xiv. 4. They needed houses, like other peo- 
ple to live in, and suitable out-houses to protect their personal 
property ; but not a foot of land for cultivation, because it 
would interfere with their sacred calling. Has the spirit of this 
important arrangement changed ? w, is there less reason now, 
for the ministers of religion to be exclusively devoted to the 
service of the altar ? 

Whitefield's tour on Long Island. — There is as much 
propriety here, as any where, in noticing Whitefield's visit to 
the eastern churches on Long Island, especially as he preached 
at Shelter Island, as well as in other towns. But it is very 
remarkable that so little has been handed down upon this sub- 



168 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

ject. And there are probably many now living in the eastern 
towns, who have no knowledge of the fact, that that distin- 
guished servant of the cross ever honoured their forefathers 
with a visit. And what renders this still more surprising, is 
that Whitefield preached in most of those towns, and particu- 
larly at Easthampton, in the incipient stages of the great 
revival of 1764, of which Dr. Buel published a detailed Nar- 
rative without naming that eminent stranger. He indeed 
says, that " in the beginning of the year 1764, there appeared 
some hopeful tokens, that the Lord was preparing his own way 
for a gracious visitation." And he informs us that this revi- 
val was developed in all its power, on " the 18th of March ;" 
and yet he makes no allusion to Whitefield or his labours, 
though his visit to that place was only 6 or 7 weeks preceding 
that date. It is difficult to account for this singular silence. 

It is known from various authentic sources, that Whitefield 
had spent the seven weeks preceding the 23d of Jan., of that 
year, in the city of New York and its vicinity. Between 
that date and the 3rd of Feb. he visited the eastern towns of 
Long Island. His head-quarters appear to have been the 
hospitable mansion of Thomas Dering, Esq., on this island.* 

" Having left New York," says Dr. Gillies, " he preached at 
Easthampton, Bridgehampton, and Southold on Long Island, 
and Shelter Island." As this is all the published record of 
this tour, that the writer has been able to find, the following 
letters, which are still in the hands of the Dering family, and 
have been kindly furnished by Dr. Nicoll H. Dering, of Rome, 
N. Y., to whose excellent grandfather, they were addressed, 
will not be out of place. It seems that Whitefield completed 
his excursion through the eastern towns, at Southold, and 
wrote the first letter on the eve of embarking across the Sound ; 
after which, he preached at New London, Norwich and Pro- 
vidence, on his way to Boston. 

" Stirling, Feb. 3, 1764, 

At night. 

"My Dr. Sir, 

What a winding World do we live in ! I have been a 
good way round, and now am come within sight of your house 

* Samuel II Hommedieu, Esq., who died at Sag Harbour, March 7th, 
1834, was a young man, at the time of Whitefield's visit, and was hope- 
fully converted under his preaching ; of which the writer has often heard 
him speak. It is moreover recollected in his family, that he frequently 
mentioned his assisting in making a raft, to convey Whitefield, with his 
horse and carriage, over the ferry from Southold to Shelter Island. 



SECT. 3.] SHELTER ISLAND. 169 

again. Yesterday, the boat and all was just gone. To-day, 
I trust, some have felt themselves undone — one, upon the 
road, we overtook, sweetly, sorely wounded. Grace ! Grace ! 
I am now come to wait for sailing. Will you send a poor, but 
willing pilgrim, the promised sea-provisions. God feed you 
and yours with the bread that cometh down from heaven. A 
thousand thanks for all favours. . Add to my obligations by 
continuing to pray for, my dear friend, 

Yours, in the never- 
failing Jesus, 

G. W." 
The next was written after his arrival in Boston. 

" Boston, May 2, 1764. 

" And is Shelter Island become a Patmos ? It seems so 
by my dear friend's letter. Blessed be God ! Blessed be 
God ! What cannot a God in Christ do for His people. All 
things well. Though he leads them seemingly in a round 
about, yet it is a right way. Though they pass through the 
fire, yet it does not consume — though through deep, yea, very 
deep waters, yet it does not overwhelm, so as to destroy them. 
And all these are only earnests of good things to come. How 
many assurances, that we shall, at last, be carried through the 
Jordan of death, and safely landed in the Canaan of everlast- 
irfg rest. Surely he cannot be far from them now. Such 
frequent shocks that your earthly tabernacle and mine meet 
with, must necessarily loosen the silver cords that hold them 
up. What then ? We have a house not made with hands, 
— eternal — in the heavens. 

" Though we cannot join in singing, we can in repeating, 

' By Thee, we shall 
Break thro' them all, 
And sing the song of Moses.' 

Methinks, I hear you say, Amen ! Hallelujah ! — and why ? 
Because His mercy endureth forever. 

" I could enlarge, but must away to my throne. It is but 
seldom I can climb so high. But an infinitely condescending 
Jesus vouchsafes to smile upon my feeble labours, here and 
elsewhere. Who knows but I may ere long come your way. 
Perhaps the cloud may point towards Patmos. Mr. Wright 
will be glad. He is better and sends most cordial respects. 
My poor prayers constantly wait upon your whole self, Mr. 
Adams, and your rising offspring. 

" In sure and certain hope, if we never meet in this world, 
\8 



170 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

of a glorious resurrection to eternal life, in that which is to 
come, I subscribe myself, very dear Sir, 

4i Your truly affec. sympathizing friend, 
And willing servant, in our common never-failing Lord, 

G. Whitefield." 

Although there is nothing peculiarly interesting in these 
characteristic letters of this man of God, except as identifying 
the time and scene of his short tour on the island, they are 
worthy of preservation. And it is to be hoped, if there are 
any other memorials of that visit, still extant, that they may 
be rescued from oblivion. 

Section 4.— EASTHAMPTON. 

Number of acres improved, - 17,827 

" " unimproved - - - 52,673 

Ratio of population to the acre, 1 to 33, nearly. 

This is the most eastern town on Long Island, lying on the 
south branch, and extending from Montauk Point 20 miles 
west. It includes also Gardiner's Island, and another small 
one, called Ram Island, lying still nearer the north shore. 

The town plat, or first and principal settlement is situated 
near the ocean, about 3 miles east of its western boundary. 
There are several other small settlements, in different parts of 
the town ; Amagansett, at the east — the Springs and Fireplace 
at the north, and Wayunscutt at the south-west ; but all be- 
longing to one congregation. 

The first settlement in this town was commenced in the 
spring of 1648, by a number of families from Lynn, and other 
neighbouring towns, in Massachusetts. (Gardiner's Island, 
however had been purchased and taken possession of by its 
proprietor as early as 1639.) The town was first called Maid- 
stone, from the town of that name in England, whence some 
of the settlers had emigrated ; but the present name was 
adopted about the year 1662. 

The first settlers from New-England, as well as those who 
afterwards joined them from the mother country, were strict 
puritans. The establishment of gospel institutions was made 
a primary object. This is saying enough to give a correct 
idea of their regard for religion and morals. But a few of 
their early municipal regulations will exhibit some of the 
means by which they endeavoured to guard the interests of 
their infant community. 



SECT. 4.] EASTHAMPTON. 171 

May 16th, 1651, it was ordered, that " Noe man shall sell 
his accommodation to another, without consent of the tovvne ; 
and if any purchase without such consent, he shall not enjoy 
the same." 

** Noe man shall sell any liquor, but such as are deputed 
thereto by the towne, and such shall not lett youth and those 
under authority remaine drinking att unreasonable hours ; and 
such persons shall not have above half a pint among four 
men." 

" Goodman Megg's lot shall not be laid out for James Sill 
to go to work on, and he shall not stay here.'' 

" Noe Indian shall travel up and down, or carry any bur- 
then in or through our town on the Sabbath day, and whoso- 
ever is found soe doing shall be liable to corporall punishment." 

In regard to a " false witness" it was ordained that, "there 
shall be done unto him, as he had thought to have done unto 
his neighbour, whatever it be, to the taking away of life, limb 
or goods." And " whosoever shall slander another shall pay a 
fine of five pounds." 

" For the prevention of abuse among the Indians, by selling 
them strong waters^ no man shall carry any to them to sell, 
nor yet send any, nor employ any to sell for them ; nor sell 
any liquor in said town to any Indian for their present drink- 
ing, above two drams at a time." 

As a fair illustration of the sentiments of the people, in re- 
lation to both religious and civil matters, the following plat- 
form of government adopted at an early period of their his- 
tory is worthy of preservation. 

" Forasmuch as it has pleased Almighty God, by the wise 
dispensation of his providence, so to order and dispose of things, 
that we, the inhabitants of Easthampton, are now dwelling 
together; the word of God requires that to maintain the 
peace and union of such a people, there should be an orderly 
and decent government established, according to God, to or- 
der and dispose as occasion shall require, we do therefore so- 
ciate and conjoin ourselves and successors to be one town or 
corporation, and do for ourselves and successors, and such as 
shall be adjoined to us at any time hereafter, enter into com- 
bination and confederation together, to maintain and preserve 
the purity of the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ, which we 
now possess ; as also the discipline of the church, which, ac- 
cording to the truth of said gospel, is now practised among 
us, as also, in our civil affairs, to be guided and governed by 
such laws and orders, as shall be made, according to God, and 



172 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

which, by the vote of the major part, shall be in force among 
us. Furthermore, we do engage ourselves that in all votes 
for choosing officers, or making orders, that it be according 
to conscience and our best light. And also we do engage our- 
selves, by this combination, to stand to and maintain the au- 
thority of the several officers of the town, in their determina- 
tions and actions, according to their orders and laws, that 
either are, or shall be made, not swerving therefrom. In wit- 
ness whereof," &c. 

In the year following the adoption of the preceding instru- 
ment, a woman was sentenced " to pay a fine of £3, or, stand 
one hour with a cleft stick upon her tongue, for saying, that 
her husband had brought her to a place, where there was nei- 
ther gospel or magistracy." 

The views and feelings, habits and customs of the original 
inhabitants of this town have probably been transmitted to 
their posterity with less change, than in any other part of our 
country : and in more respects than one, the character of the 
community is more unique, than that of any other settlement 
of equal extent. On politics, religion and almost every other 
subject, upon which we generally find a great diversity of sen- 
timent, the people of Easthampton have always been, and 
still are remarkably united. In the times of the hottest po- 
litical contests, about the commencement of the present cen- 
tury, there were but two dissenting votes usually given at the 
general elections ; and these were cast by persons living in 
Sag Harbour, the eastern part of which extends over the line 
into the territorial limits of this town. And with the excep- 
tion of this corner of their territory, it is said there is even, 
to this day, little increase of dissent. 

But their union in religious views is equally remarkable. 
There never has been but one church, and one place of wor- 
ship, for the space of nearly 200 years : and, with the excep- 
tion already made, it is said that there are very few profes- 
sors of religion of any other denomination of christians than 
the " standing order. 1 ' 

The steady habits and rigid morals of primitive puritanism 
are probably retained here in greater purity than in any other 
part of the new world. Till of late years, there was no ta- 
vern in the town, as no one could afford to pay the minimum 
price of a licence established by law. Whenever a traveller 
entered the place, (which in former times, was a very rare oc- 
currence,) and inquired for a house of entertainment, he was 
always directed to the Town-Clerk's residence, or some other 



SECT. 4-] EASTHAMPTON. 173 

respectable house, where he was hospitably entertained as long 
as he had occasion to stay. A law-suit beetween two of its 
inhabitants was an occurrence scarcely known ; and when 
a precept from the next town was served on an inhabitant of 
Easthampton, it was generally compromised without a formal 
trial. And it is believed that a riot, or breach of the peace, 
is an occurrence unknown in the annals of this town.* 

The peninsula of Montauk, whose physical features have 
been previously described (Part 1,) constitutes a part of 
this township, and is occupied as a common pasturage. 
It was originally divided into some 30 shares, and these 
were subdivided into eighths, each of which entitles the 
owner to the pasturage of 7 neat cattle or 49 sheep. Its 
elevation in the midst of the ocean — its wonderful supply of 
fresh water from the springs, swamps and vast ponds previous- 
ly described — its luxuriant pastures — the refreshing sea- 
breezes, and the entire absence of flies and moschetoes, which 
abound in the adjacent marshes, render it one of the most 
delightful retreats for domestic animals ; where, in the course 
of a few weeks, they become fat and healthy. It is still sub- 
ject to the Indian reservation, which, however, must soon be- 
come extinct, in the extinction of the race. But the people 
of Easthampton should never permit the name of Wvan- 
danch, the unwavering friend of the white man, to sinK into 
oblivion. It is worthy of a monument : at least, let it be in- 
scribed in Capitals, on one of the Granite Rocks, in the midst 
of those vast burial grounds which still occupy so large a por- 
tion of this peculiar spot. 

* At the time this remark was penned, the following instance of the 
early application of Lynch-law was not recollected ; the record of which, 
however disgraceful to the good people of this town, truth demands : — 

Just after the close of the American war, a pedler from Conn, who had 
been in the habit of supplying the east end with gewgaws and nick-nacks, 
arrived in town on Saturday evening. The next morning, though labour, 
ing under symptoms of the measles, and in despite of the remonstrances 
of his hostess, he attended church, as was supposed, merely to let the 
people know that he was ready to supply them with " Yankee notions." 
This act of temerity being bruited through the congregation in the after- 
noon, excited such a torrent of indignation, accompanied with strong in- 
timations of personal violence, that the wary pedler deemed it prudent to 
decamp as early as possible in the morning. But he was not early enough 
for a company of young men, who were soon upon his track ; and after 
overtaking and bringing him back, they rode him upon a rail through the 
village, and finally ducked him in the town pond. Nearly 100 people af- 
terwards had the measles, of which several died ; but whether contracted 
in church, or in the scrape of Monday morning, of course, could not be 
determined. The pedler, subsequently, prosecuted the perpetrators of 
this disgraceful outrage, and obtained a verdict of $1000 damages. 



174 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 



CHURCHES, &C. 

The first house of worship was erected in 1652, in dimen- 
sions 20 by 26 feet, and was covered with thatch. The peo- 
ple had previously worshipped in an " ordinary" or public house, 
for the use of which the owner was paid 18 pence a week. 
The church was repaired and enlarged in 1673 ; and again 
in 1698. 

In 1717 a new edifice was raised, and finished in the fol- 
lowing yeai\ It was then the largest and most splendid build- 
ing of the kind on the island. It was furnished with a bell 
and dock, which have jointly kept and proclaimed the flight 
of time, for 125 years. To accommodate an increasing con- 
gregation, in process of time, a second gallery was erected, 
above the first, which formed a singular feature in the inte- 
rior of a house of religious worship. 

In 1823, the interior of this church was removed, the build- 
ing entirely remodeled, and finished in a modern style. It is 
now probably the oldest church edifice on the island ; (the 
frame being 128 years old ;) and unless the taste of the peo- 
ple should demand a new one, it may stand another half cen- 
tury. 

The first settlers of this town were deeply convinced of the 
importance of general education, as well as religious instruc- 
tion ; and hence, they made provision for a permanent school. 
They employed an approved teacher, to whom they gave a 
salary of £30 a year (while they gave their minister £40 ;) 
which was raised by a tax. He was constantly employed in 
his office till his death in 1663, when another was immediate- 
ly and permanently engaged. 

This school was kept up till Dr. Buel's day ; when, in 1784 
by his influence a spacious Brick Edifice was erected, in the 
centre of the village, and incorporated under the name of 
" Clinton Academy ;" in honour of George Clinton, then 
Governor of the State, who presented it with a Bell. This, 
it has been previously stated, was the first Academy charter- 
ed by the Regents of the University of this State. It has 
uniformly enjoyed a liberal patronage from the town, which 
is more than can be said of many similar institutions ; and 
was formerly much resorted to by pupils from abroad. 

MINISTERS. 

The Rev. Thomas James was the first pastor of the church 



SECT. 4.] EASTHAMPTON. 175 

of Easthampton. His name appears in the list of early set- 
tlers ; and, if he did not come with the first 8 families, that 
took possession of the town, he must have followed soon af- 
ter. He was the son of a minister and a theological student, 
when he emigrated with his father to the new world in 1G32. 
He is reputed to have been a man of talents and piety ; and 
enjoyed the entire confidence of his people, among whom he 
had great influence, in all secular affairs, as well as in their 
spiritual concerns. It is generally supposed that he was, with- 
al, eccentric ; of which his dying injunction is generally re- 
ferred to as sufficient evidence. He requested, and his affec- 
tionate people complied with the request, that his body should 
be interred in the eastern part of the burying ground, with 
his head to the east ; assigning as a reason, that he wished to 
arise in the morning of the resurrection, with his face to his 
people. Whatever singularity may attach to the arrangement, 
it was doubtless intended to be a standing lesson to the peo- 
ple of his charge who survived him, by which " though dead, 
he might yet speak" to them. 

The following is the inscription on his tomb stone, which, 
from the vast increase of that congregation of the dead, dur- 
ing the ravages of 150 years, is now to be found near the cen- 
tre of trb burying yard : — 

Mr. 

Thomas 
James, dyed 
THE 16th "day of 

Jvne in the 
yeare 1696. HE 

was Ministar 

of THE gospel 

and Pastvre 

of the church 

of Christ* 



* The words " THE— HE and THE" printed in Capitals, are en- 
graved on the Tomb Stone, with only two perpendicular strokes, the T 
and E being formed on the H. 



176 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

Several years before his death, Mr. James became so infirm 
that he was obliged to have an assistant, but his people kindly 
continued his salary. The Rev. William Jones was employed 
during the last three years of Mr. J.'s life, and until his suc- 
cessor was settled. 

The Rev. Nathaniel Huntting was the second pastor of this 
church. He commenced his labours here in Sept. 1696, and 
was installed Sept. 13th, 1699. He was a close student and 
an industrious minister. Dr. Beecher states in his history of 
this town, that " more than 100 volumes of his manuscript 
sermons are extant, written in a clear and nervous style." 
After serving the people just 50 years, he was, through infir- 
mity, dismissed, at his own request, on the settlement of his 
successor, Sept. 19th, 1746 ; and died Sept. 21st, 1753, aged 
80 years, or more. 

For several years preceding the relinquishment of his 
charge, Mr. H. had been so infirm as to require assistance, 
and several helpers had been employed. Among these, was 
the Rev. James Davenport, who, in the height of his zeal, 
made a deep impression on the people. And here was pre- 
sented a clear illustration of the influence of the new-light 
spirit, and its separatical measures, in regularly established 
churches. Some of the people, not contented with express- 
ing their admiration of this wonderful man, but imbibing the 
censorious spirit of the age, soon began to make hard speeches 
of their aged pastor, who had spent almost half a century in 
teaching them the way of life ; and at length actually turned 
their backs upon his ministry. The congregation became so 
much divided, that they could not unite upon any candidate. 
A council, convened to consider a call addressed to one who 
had a majority, refused to proceed to his ordination, for " the 
want of harmony among the people." The Rev. Mr. Burr, 
of New Jersey, being one of the number, pledged himself to 
send them a candidate, who, he believed, would be acceptable. 
Just after his return home, he met with the Rev. Samuel 
Buel, who was on his way to Virginia, who, being prevailed 
on, though with great reluctance, to visit Easthampton, was 
most cordially received by all parties. 

The Rev. Samuel Buel, D.D., the third semi-centenary pas- 
tor of this church, was born at Coventry, Ct., Sept. 1st, 1716 — 
graduated at Yale, in 1741 — licensed the same fall — ordained 
in New England, 1743, and installed in this town, Sept. 19th, 
1746, on which occasion, his predecessor was dismissed. The 
year following his installation, he and his church united in the 



SECT. 4.] EASTHAMPTON. 177 

organization of the Suffolk Presbytery ; and from that time, it 
has remained a Presbyterian Church. Shortly after, the ques- 
tion arose in this congregation as to the propriety of admit- 
ting to sealing ordinances, " those who had separated from the 
ministry of Mr. Huntting, without making some reflections 
upon that conduct of theirs." This question was submitted to 
the Presbytery, Oct. 25th, 1749, and was not definitively 
acted on, on account of the absence of several members, till 
April 4th, 1750 ; when the Presbytery, 

1. " Voted that the adult Christian inhabitants of Easthamp- 
ton, that separated from the ministry of Mr. Huntting, acted 
contrary to the order of the gospel, and ought to make proper 
reflections on their conduct." And, 

2. " Judged it proper that they should make a confession 
of their misconduct in manner following : — 

"I acknowledge that my separation from the Rev. Mr. 
Huntting's ministry, and speaking reproachfully of him in a 
time of great difficulty and ignorance of church government, 
though a season of special divine influences, was contrary to 
the order of the gospel and the rules of discipline in Christ's 
visible church ; and such divisive principles as were the 
spring of my separation, I now renounce with sorrow, desir- 
ing forgiveness of all I have offended, and resolve, by divine 
assistance, upon a regular course for time to come." 

Though new-lightism had taken a deep hold in this church, 
and there were many things calculated to keep it alive, yet 
the decided ground taken by the Presbytery, (however inex- 
pedient it might be deemed now-a-days,) and carried out by 
the pastor, who by his great popularity with all parties, was 
able to accomplish it, probably did more to correct the evil, 
and prevent its resuscitation, than any other measures that 
could have been devised. While a faithful testimony was 
borne to the work of God, these irregularities, and unchristian 
speeches were branded as disorderly and sinful. Happy 
would it have been for the churches of our day, if our ecclesi- 
astical judicatories had been as prompt to place the seal of 
their disapprobation on the same fanatic spirit, with all its dis- 
tinguishing peculiarities, when it was revived about 20 years 
ago. But then they were told, " you cannot condemn those 
things which you consider wrong, without arresting the work 
of the Spirit, with which they are accompanied." Yielding to 
this false and delusive doctrine, the watchmen of Zion were 
constrained to hold their peace, when they saw the flames 
kindling, that, under the mask of a heavenly fire, have buined 



178 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

over the land : desolating some of the fairest portions of God's 
heritage, — filling the churches with hypocrites, and driving 
hundreds of pastors from their charge. 

Few ministers have been formed, by both physical and gra- 
cious endowments, to make a deeper impression on the peo- 
ple of their charge, or have left a more abiding impress of their 
own spirit and characteristics, than Dr. Buel. He had come 
into the gospel field, and commenced his labours in the very 
dawn of that remarkable revival, which so extensively per- 
vaded the land, about the time of his licensure. And while 
others were carried away with the extravagances of the times, 
he, strongly attached to such men as Edwards and Bellam)', 
the former of whom, he often said, he regarded, under God, 
as "his oracle," was saved from imbibing the spirit of fanati- 
cism and disorganization. And this is the more remarkable, 
when it is admitted, that in the constitutional temperament and 
consequently, in the movements of Dr. Buel, there was an ar- 
dour of zeal, that oftentimes bore a strong resemblance to the 
enthusiasm of the age. But his discriminating mind, and 
sound judgment, always prevented it from degenerating into 
" a zeal not according to knowledge." Detached expressions, 
and isolated acts are now often rehearsed, which would indi- 
cate to the hearer, without any other information, that their 
author, if not an absolute ranter, was, at least, an imprudent 
and enthusiastic declaimer. But he was a remarkably judi- 
cious minister — an able divine, a vigilant pastor, and a most 
pungent and successful preacher of the blessed gospel. His 
oratorial powers were of a more popular cast, than was com- 
mon in his day. And when to this are added, the clear and 
forcible views of gospel truth and duty, which he always ex- 
hibited, and that earnest, melting flow of soul, that impressed 
his hearers with the conviction, that he would gladly " pluck 
them, as brands, from the burning," we may form some idea 
of his preaching. The writer recollects to have heard him 
but once, and that in childhood, but the abiding impression 
left on his mind, confirms the correctness of these remarks. 

Dr. Buel was a man of a cheerful disposition and sprightly 
wit, and very much of the gentleman in his deportment. 
These traits in his character might be illustrated by numerous 
anecdotes, but the following extract from the " Chronicles of 
Easthampton " will suffice : — 

" Mr. Buel was on friendly and intimate terms with Gov. 
Tryon, and who, from his lively disposition, ready wit, and 
fondness for the chase, was a favourite of Sir William Er- 



SECT. 4.J EASTHAMPTON. 179 

sklne, (commander of the British forces stationed at East- 
hampton in the revolutionary war) — and often had jit in his 
power to mitigate the severity of their orders by his interces- 
sion, which was seldom refused when timely made. He fre- 
quently joined their parties, which he enlivened by humorous 
anecdotes, and agreeable conversation. On one occasion, he 
was behind the hour appointed for a deer-hunt, to which he 
had been invited. The commander had detained the party, 
which was principally composed of younger officers, who 
were impatient of the delay. Tired of waiting, they had al- 
ready mounted, when, perceiving his friend Buel approaching, 
Sir William required them to dismount, and receive him. 
Lord Percy, afterwards Duke of Northumberland, and then 
an aid-de-camp, while impatiently pacing the floor, was intro- 
duced to Mr. Buel, who thereupon asked him, what portion of 
his Majesty's forces he had the honour to command ? Percy, 
whose ill-humour had been raised by the order to dismount, 
(and no doubt with a view to insult the clergyman,) replied, 
" A legion of devils just from hell /" " Then," said Mr. Buel, 
with a low obeisance, " I suppose I have the honour to address 
Beelzebub, the prince of devils" The repartee was so se- 
verely felt, as to induce his lordship to put his hand upon his 
sword. This was instantly rebuked by Sir William ; and 
though the laugh of his friends was turned upon Percy, the 
pleasantry, politeness, and marked attentions of the parson, 
had, not only restored him to good humour, long before thff 
chase was ended, but had forced him to admire and respect 
the man whom, in the passion of the moment, he had called 
" an old rebel." — " Mr. Buel made no concealment of his W r hig 
principles ; and, on proper occasions, did not hesitate to avow 
them. Meeting with him at another time, and on Saturday 
of the week, Sir William remarked, that he had ordered the 
people of his parish to appear on the morrow, with their teams, 
at Southampton. Mr. Buel replied, that he was aware of it, 
but that he (himself) was commander-in-chief on that day, 
and he had annulled the order. The precedence was pleas- 
santly admitted, and the order revoked." 

Distinguished and admired as Dr. Buel was, as a preacher, 
his ministry was still more distinguished by its effects. Of 
these he had numerous seals impressed by the Spirit of grace, 
which will be noticed under another head. u He was favoured 
with uncommon health of body, and soundness of mind, to the 
last of his days." " The day he was 80 years old, he rode 14 
miles, preached, and returned home at evening." He preach- 



180 ANNALS OF THE TOWNSi [PART 2, 

ed the Sabbath but one before his death." He died July 19th, 

1798, being nearly 82 years of age, and having been pastor 
of this church nearly 52 years. — He had his weaknesses ; and 
who has not 1 and among these has often been mentioned, his 
marrying a youthful wife in his old age. This circumstance, 
however, would not have been adverted to, but to remark, that 
she survived till the present year, and died a few months since, 
at an age nearly equal to that of the husband of her youth. A 
single daughter, the fruit of that marriage, died unmarried 
several years ago. 

The Rev. -Lyman Beeclier, D.D., was the fourth pastor of 
this church. He was born at New Haven, Conn., in 1775 — 
graduated at Yale, in 1797, and ordained here, Sept. 5th, 

1799. Of his character and usefulness, the present genera- 
tion need no information. When it is required, the pen of a 
future historian can, with propriety, do him justice. Dr. 
Beecher is still living. His dismission, which took place 
April 19th, 1810, was the first event of the kind that the 
congregation ever realized. It was to them a new and un- 
tried event. It originated in no real dissatisfaction on the 
part of minister or people. It is no disparagement to Dr. 
Beecher, to say, that his mind was so little inclined to the 
cares and calculations of worldly affairs, and so entirely ab- 
sorbed with the interests of the church, both at home and 
abroad, that it was impossible he should make as much of a 
moderate salary, as many another man would have made. 
During a great part of his ministry, the deficiency- was in part 
supplied by the labours of Mrs. Beecher, in teaching a select 
school of young ladies, for which she was eminently qualified, 
and to which she untiringly devoted herself. But in 1809, 
Dr. B. finding himself involved in debt, beyond his means of 
paying, called upon his people for relief. They expressed 
their readiness to discharge his debts, but demurred on in- 
creasing his salary ; which he considered an indispensable se- 
curity against the speedy recurrence of the same evil. At 
this conjuncture, he received an invitation to visit Litchfield, 
Ct., which was then vacant. This fact he frankly communi- 
cated to his people, and agreed to wait several days, to give 
them time to decide the question, which was then before them. 
The result was unfavourable, and Dr. B. immediately set out 
for Litchfield, where he spent several weeks, and returned un- 
der a call. At this time his people expressed a willingness to 
comply with his demands, but it was evidently too late to re- 
trace the steps which had been taken. His dismission followed, 



SECT. 4.] EASTHAMPTON. lSl 

and he left Long Island, with the regrets of all the ministers 
and all the churches. 

The writer has been the more particular in the details of 
this case, because it is full of instruction to churches, when 
possessed of a pastor whom they all love, and whose continu- 
ance among them depends on the simple question, whether 
they will make a small addition of their " carnal things " for 
his support, or put at hazard all their " spiritual things." 

The dismission of Dr. Beecher seems to have overthrown 
that permanency of the ministry, which had previously cha- 
racterised this church, almost without a parallel, and to have 
introduced a new order of things which still remains. Till 
this time, this congregation had not been vacant but once, in 
a period of 160 years. 

The Rev. Ebenezer Phillips, the fifth pastor, was ordained 
May 15th, 1811. He was a man of sound mind and re- 
spectable acquirements. Failure of health compelled him to 
give up his charge, and he was dismissed March 16th, 1830. 
He removed to Carmel, Putnam county, N. Y., where he 
died within the last two or three years. 

The Rev. Joseph D. Condit, the sixth pastor, was ordained 
Sept. 1st, 1830. He was dismissed April 22d, 1835, and re- 
moved to Massachusetts. 

Since that time this church has had no regularly installed 
pastor; but from 1836, the Rev. Samuel R. Ely has been 
employed as a stated supply. He was formerly pastor of the 
church of Red Mills in Putnam county, where he was or- 
dained April 22d, 1835. It is understood that he is entirely 
acceptable to the people, and why they are willing to remain 
in a state so entirely foreign to all the previous feelings and 
habits of the place, is difficult to explain. 

In review of the last 45 years, the reader will be surprised 
to find that four ministers have not yet occupied this field, so 
long as either of the three preceding pastors, whose united 
ministry continued 150 years, without a vacancy. 

REVIVALS. 

The first special work of grace in this town, of which any 
distinct mention is made, is said to have occurred " in the 
Rev. Mr. Huntting's day." This was undoubtedly the revival 
of 1741-2, which took place under the labours of the Rev. 
Mr. Davenport. Of this work, the following very judicious 
remarks are made by Dr. Woolworth in his re-publication of 



182 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

Dr. BuePs Narrative of the revival of 1764, with a Memoir 
of the Doctor, printed at Sag Harbour, 1S08. 

" It was occasioned, apparently, by the instrumentality of 
the Rev. John (it should have been James) Davenport of 
Southold. It was characterized by many of the impruden- 
ces peculiar to that man, and in some degree peculiar to that 
day ; but was, nevertheless, in the midst of human weakness, 
a glorious work of God. About 100 persons were hopefully 
converted, 60 of whom were added to the church soon after 
the installation of Dr. Buel. 

" This revival, though by many at that time deemed a 
judgment, was, we can now perceive, the commencement of 
a series of mercies unspeakably great. It revived experi- 
mental religion, which for a season had been declining, and 
embodied in the church a host of praying people — the precious 
seed of following revivals." 

The correctness of these remarks no one acquainted with 
the case can doubt. At the same time, it must be confessed, 
that the influence of that misguided man introduced into 
many churches, on the eastern parts of the island, sentiments 
and practices which have had an injurious influence on the 
interests of religion, and are not entirely eradicated at the 
present day. It is obvious to remark, that in the great dis- 
parity between the number of professed converts, and those 
who made a public profession of religion, we see the origin of 
that antinomian spirit which induced multitudes to take the 
ground, that " they could go to heaven as easily and safely in a 
private way, as by joining the church," which has been a mill- 
stone upon the neck of some of these churches for the space 
of one hundred years. The writer heard the judicious Dr. 
Woolworth express the opinion 35 years ago, that " there 
were in his congregation as many persons living on a hope 
that they were the subjects of renewing grace, out of the 
church, as there were in its communion." He is happy to learn, 
that at the present day, this sentiment and its practical influ- 
ence are far less prevalent than formerly. 

Though Dr. Buel had been extensively occupied for several 
years in the great awakening in New England, nothing like 
a general revival took place till 18 years after his installa- 
tion. In 1749 there was an unusual attention to religion in 
some of the outer villages, and a considerable number of 
hopeful conversions, especially among the youth, took place. 
This the Doctor called " a small harvest of souls." And he 
makes mention of other refreshing seasons, in which his 



SECT. 4.] EASTHAMPTON. 183 

" hopes ran high," but " the result was not equal to his raised 
expectations.'' During these 18 years about 80 persons, in- 
cluding the 60 just mentioned, were admitted to the com- 
munion of the church. 

In 1664 occurred the great revival, of which he wrote an 
extended account that is still in print in different forms. 
Favourable appearances commenced early in the year, but 
the work was developed in its most wonderful efficacy about 
the middle of March ; and continued in great power through 
the summer. And although it afterwards declined, it still 
progressed with abated and occasionally renewed vigour 
through the succeeding autumn and winter. It was not one 
of those evanescent excitements that are got up in a night, 
and disappear in a night, and are followed with dissentions 
among christians, and the dissolution of the sacred relation 
between minister and people. These old fashioned revivals 
were attended with directly opposite effects, strongly cement- 
ing the bonds of christian love between the members of the 
church and their minister, while they furnished large acces- 
sions to the company of the faithful. In this favoured season, 
but a little short of 150 persons were added to the communion 
of the church ; 98 at one time and 24 at another, while the 
work was still going on : and great caution as well as delay 
was exercised in the admission of professed converts to seal- 
ing ordinances. Though the work was powerful in March, 
these numerous admissions did not take place until July and 
afterwards. 

Again in 1815, it pleased God to favour this church with a 
renewed effusion of the Holy Spirit. Of this also, Dr. Buel 
wrote and published an account. About 100 were added to 
the church. 

Again, in 1791, a special religious interest was excited, 
especially among the young. Between 40 and 50 were ad- 
mitted to the communion of the church. This was the last 
season of special attention under Dr. Buel's ministry. 

Some months previous to the ordination of Dr. Beecher, 
in 1799 and while he was preaching as a candidate, there 
was a deep interest awakened on the subject of religion, and 
several instances of awakening and hopeful conversion 
occurred. This state of things continued till the close of the 
year, when from the 10th of Jan. 1800, for several succeeding 
weeks " the work was powerful and glorious." As the fruits 
of this precious season, about 60 were added to the com- 
munion of the church, and about 20 more professed hope. 



184 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

Again, the winter of 1808-9 was distinguished in this and 
several other congregations as a precious season of refreshing 
from the presence of the Lord. In the course of the latter 
year 97, and in the subsequent year 29, were added to the 
church, which then amounted to 370 communicants. In all 
its essential characteristics this work resembled those in 
former years. But there was one peculiarity worthy of 
special notice. In former revivals, the period of conviction 
was frequently protracted to weeks and months before any 
relief was experienced. Dr. Buel in his narrative of 1764, 
in alluding to the revival of 1741-2 says, " in some instances, 
the concern of that day hath extended down to the present, 
now hopefully issuing in a saving change." And though 
such protracted convictions were comparatively rare, yet it was 
common to find them extended for weeks, even in the midst of 
a powerful revival. In 1808-9, however, it was equally 
common to see the careless sinner awakened, and strong con- 
victions in a few days succeeded by bright hopes of pardon 
and salvation. This fact, which may be regarded as a feature 
of most revivals since that time, is worthy of a careful investi- 
gation as to its causes and effects. The writer recollects 
that it excited no little inquiry at the time ; and in a meeting 
of several neighbouring ministers whose churches were shar- 
ing in this rain of righteousness, they came to the following 
conclusion : " Let us do our duty in exhibiting clearly the 
whole counsel of God, and in directing inquiring souls to the 
Lamb of God, who alone can take away sin ; and then leave 
the Holy Spirit to do his own work in his own time and way : 
and whether men are longer or shorter under what has been 
called ' a law-work,' if they cordially embrace the truth, 
and continue to bring forth the fruits of righteousness, we 
are bound to acknowledge them as christians." This, it is 
believed, is the true and safe principle ; and revivals of re- 
ligion conducted by this rule will prove a blessing to any 
community. The greatest danger arises from withholding 
plain, distinguishing truth, aiming only to produce excite- 
ment, and hurrying converts, so called, into the church, before 
they have had time to test the reality of their professed 
change. 

In 1816, this church experienced another refreshing season ; 
and in the course of that year, 87 persons were added to its 
communion, which was then reported to consist of 303 mem- 
bers. To account for this reduction since 1809, the follow- 
ing are the only data. It appears from the presbyterial 



SECT. 4.] EASTHAMPTON. 185 

reports to the Synod, that during three successive years, 
1812, '13, '14, only one individual was added to the commu- 
nion of this church : and during the others, a small number. 
Deaths and removals, of which the latter must have been 
numerous, probably make up the deficiency ; so that at the 
commencement of the revival of 1816, this church was 
reduced to 216 communicants. And though subsequently in- 
creased to more than 300, it was again reduced, about 1830, 
to 245. Does not the religious history of this congregation 
present a strong case to show the value of a permanent 
ministry ? 

In 1831, another revival was experienced, in which 116, 
(including two on certificate,) were added to the church, 
which was reported to the Synod, in 1832, as having 351 
members. Since that time, there have been seasons of re- 
freshing, but no particular facts have been ascertained. The 
present number of members is 435. 

Summary, Within the territorial limits of this town, there 
are three houses of worship. But as two of them are in the 
village of Sag Harbour, which embraces 697 of the population 
of this town, the balance, viz., 1458, may be considered as 
belonging to this single congregation. 



And here, the truth of history demands the record of a 
singular anomaly, in the annals of this eminently religious 
community. Near the close of Dr. Buel's life, when the 
effervescence of the French revolution had begun to develop 
itself, in the dissemination of infidel sentiments through the 
world, strange as it may appear, in this retired town, where 
puritanism had reigned 150 years, without even "a dog to 
move his tongue" against it, a regular Infidel Club was 
established. Its numbers were indeed small, even with all 
that could be collected from the adjoining town ; but they 
were men of talents, and some men of education, and withal 
as bold and bitter enemies to the cross of Christ and divine 
revelation, as could be found in the Atheistical Republic. 
They held frequent soirees, in which they endeavoured to 
sharpen up the spear of ridicule — Hume's " Test of Truth," 
and other weapons, by which they expected to " crush the 
wretch." Even boys in the streets were heard retailing such 
wonderful arguments against the Bible as the following : that 
" it was impossible for a whale to swallow Jonah, since it had 



186 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

now been ascertained that the throat of a whale is not bigger 
than a junk bottle." — It is indeed true, that very few decided 
converts were made to the ranks of these undisguised and 
zealous champions of infidelity ; but the influence of their 
sentiments, aided principally by the exceedingly rancorous 
spirit of party politics at that day, of which our fiercest politi- 
cal contests at the present time afford no adequate specimen, 
exerted a power over this moral and religious community, to 
an extent, that would be perfectly incredible, if not sustained 
by incontrovertible testimony. The following fact will illus- 
trate this remark : — 

In 1807, the teacher of the Academy, (in which one of the 
students, a few years before, to show his manly courage, had 
burned the Bible,) in preparation for a public exhibition, had 
got up a Dialogue, written with admirable ability and force, 
the design of which was to expose the weakness and futility 
of the arguments of infidelity, against the claims of revelation. 
The writer, in preparing the piece, had made a free use of 
Mr. Jefferson's philosophical arguments against the possibility 
of a general deluge; and the entire indifference, whether 
" my neighbour believes in one god or twenty gods," and the 
sentiments of many others, both written and oral ; and he 
had turned the shafts of ridicule with most tremendous force 
and withering effect, against those who had claimed that in- 
strument as their principal weapon of assault. The Dialogue 
was an extremely well-timed production, and one would have 
thought, that it would have been hailed with a cordial 
welcome, not only by Christians, but by every man that re- 
spected the Bible. But strange to tell, a few days before the 
exhibition, the free-thinkers took the alarm, and by working 
on the political prejudices of the community, and making 
them believe that it was improper to animadvert upon the 
sentiments, and even expose the infidelity of men occupying 
exalted offices in the nation, (though the notorious gag-law of 
the preceding administration had long since been repealed by 
an insulted and indignant nation,) a meeting of the Trustees 
was called, and a majority was induced to vote, that the ob- 
noxious Dialogue should not be presented at the approaching 
exhibition of the Academy ! 

This weak and thoughtless attempt to hamper the freedom 
of speech in Easthampton, could not, of course, cramp the 
liberty of the press. The Dialogue was immediately publish- 
ed, and thus obtained an influence vastly beyond the original 
intention of its author. 



SECT. 5.] SOUTHAMPTON. 187 

The most of the original members of the infidel clan in this 
town have gone to their final account. It is questionable 
whether there is one left, who is willing to stand up before 
the world and say, that he regards the Bible as a fable. There 
may be some small fry scattered about the country, whose 
sceptical notions were first imbibed from these men. But it 
is believed, that there is as little infidelity in Easthampton, at 
the present time, as in any town of our country. But this 
occurrence shows clearly the danger to which even good men 
are exposed, when they permit their judgment and feelings to 
be carried away by party strife. 



Section 5.— SOUTHAMPTON. 

Number of acres improved, - - - 23,105 
" " unimproved, - - 68,395 

Ratio of population to the acre, 1 to 14. 

This township, as now defined, extends from the western 
line of Easthampton, taking the entire breadth of the south 
branch of the island, to the head of Peconick Bay ; — thence, 
about two miles west to Kanungum Pond, through which the 
Peconick river passes. From this point, the western bounda- 
ry is a straight line south about 10° west, till it strikes Setuck 
Creek, near Speonk, which runs into East Bay, which is the 
eastern part of the great South Bay. 

The settlement of this town was commenced in 1640, by a 
company from Lynn, Mass. Eight men are named as the 
first " undertakers" as they were called, with more apparent 
propriety, than the term is now applied to the buriers of the 
dead. They sold a vessel to one Captain Howe, whom they 
admitted as one of the company, with the stipulation, that 
said vessel should ply, three times a year, between Massachu- 
setts and Long Island. Before they left Lynn, the number of 
** undertakers" was increased to 16; among whom was the 
Rev. Abraham Pierson, of Boston, who was their first 
minister. 

They first proceeded to the western part of the island, and 
landing at Cow Bay, they purchased of the natives, a large 
tract of land, and immediately commenced their settlement. 
This territory being claimed by the Dutch, Gov. Kieft sent an 
armed company, (May 13th, 1640,) and arrested six of the 



188 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

men, who were taken to the citadel and thrown into prison. 
In a few days they were brought before the Governor, and 
released on a promise of quitting the territory. They accord- 
ingly " pulled up stakes" and returned to the east end of the 
island, where they established themselves without further 
molestation. 

The instrument which they had received from James Far- 
rett, the agent of Lord Stirling, is dated April 17th, 1640, and 
authorizes them " to sit down where it best liketh them on 
Long Island, to make purchases of the Indians, and settle 
thereupon, with as full and free liberty, both in church order 
and civil government, as the plantations in Massachusetts en- 
joyed." The place they now selected was on the south side, 
in full view of the ocean, about four miles from North Sea, 
which was the place of their landing on Peconick Bay. 

A specimen of their early legislation will both gratify curi- 
osity, and give a correct view of the character of the first set- 
tlers. The following abstract is taken from the earliest 
records of the town, which are now in a very mutilated condi- 
tion, and unless speedily transcribed and arranged, will soon 
be totally illegible : — 

Offences punishable by the magistrate are classified as 
follows : — 

" 1. Trespasses. If any man's swine, or any other beast, 
or a fire kind'ed by a man, damage another man's field, he 
shall make full restitution for the grain and time lost in secur- 
ing the swine, &c. Exod. xii. 5, 6. — Lev. xxiv. 18. But if 
a man turn his swine or cattle into another's field, restitution 
shall be made of the best he possesses, though it be much 
better than that which is destroyed. Exod. xxi. 34. 

" 2. If a man killeth another's beast, or dig or open a pit, 
and leave it uncovered, and a beast fall into it, he that killed 
the beast, and the owner of the pit, shall make restitution. If 
a man's beast kill the beast of another, the owner of the beast 
shall make restitution. Exod. xxi. 35, 36. 

" 3. If a man's ox or other beast gore or bite and kill a man 
or woman, whether child or of riper age, the beast shall be kill- 
ed, and no benefit of the dead beast reserved to the owner. 
But if the ox or other beast were wont to push or bite in for- 
mer time, and the owner hath been told of it, and hath not 
kept him in, then, the ox or beast shall be forfeited and killed, 
and the owner also put to death ; or else fined to pay, what 



SECT 5.] SOUTHAMPTON. 189 

the judges and person damnified shall lay upon him. Exod. 
xxi. 28, 29. 

" 4. If a man deliver goods to his neighbour to keep, and 
they be said to be lost or stolen from him, the keeper of the 
goods shall be put to his oath, — [illegible] — and no evidence to 
the contrary, he shall be quit. But if he be found false 
unto his neighbour, or unfaithful, he shall pay double. But 
if a man take hire for the goods committed unto him, and 
they be stolen, the keeper shall make restitution. But if the 
beast kept for hire die, or be hurt, or be driven away, no man 
seeing of it, an oath shall be taken of the keeper, that it was 
without his default, and it shall be accepted. But if the 
beast be tome in pieces, and a piece be brought for witness, it 
excuseth the keeper. Exod. xxii. 8 — 13. 

"II. Of Crimes. 

" And first, of such as deserve cutting off from a man's 
people, — [banishment.] 

(l Whosoever shall revile the religion and worship of God 
as now established, to be cut off by banishment. 

" Wilful perjury, whether public or private, to be punished 
with banishment — [illegible] — Just it is, that such a man's 
name should be cut oft' from his people, who profaneth so 
grossly the name of God before his people. 

li Unreverend and dishonourable carriage to magistrates to 
to be punished with banishment for a time, till they acknow- 
ledge their fault and profess reformation. 

" Of Crimes less heinous, such as are to bejwnished with 
some corporal punishment or fine. 

11 1. Rash and profane swearing and cursing to be pun- 
ished, 

"1. With loss of honour or office, if it be a magistrate or 
officer. Meet it is, that their names should be dishonoured, 
who dishonour God's name. 

" 2. With loss of freedom. 

" 3. With disability to give testimony. 

" 4. By corporal punishment — either by stripes — branding 
with an hot iron, or boring them through the tongue, as he 
hath bored and pierced God's name. 

" II. Drunkenness, as transforming God's image into a 
beast, is to be punished with the punishment of a beast. 
Prov. xxvi. 3. A whip for a horse — and a rod for a fooVs 
bach. 

" III. Fornication, to be punished, 

" 1. With a fine or penalty to the father 



190 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

" 2. With marriage of the maid, if she and her father 
consent. 

" 3. With corpora] punishment of stripes ; for this wrong is 
a real slander. It is worse to make a harlot, than to say- 
one is a harlot. 

" IV. Maiming or wounding of a free man to be punished 
with a fine. 

" Crimes, that deserve capital punishment. 

" 1. Blasphemy, which is a cursing of God, or wicked de- 
nying of God by Atheism or the like. Deut. xxiv. 15. 

" 2. Idolatry — Deut. xvii. 3 — 5. 

u 3. Witchcraft, which is fellowship by covenant with a 
familiar spirit. Exod. xxii. IS. 

" 4. Consulting with ivitches — death or banishment. Lev. 
xx. 6. 

*' 5. Heresy, which is the maintenance of some wicked 
error, overthrowing the foundations of the true religion, with 
obstinacy, if it be joined with an endeavour to seduce others 
thereunto. 

"6. To worship God in a molten image. 

" 7. Profaning the Lord's day in a careless and scornful 
manner, or contempt thereof. Num. xv. 30 — 36. 

" 8. To plot and practise the betraying of the country, or 
any principal fort therein to the hand of a foreign state, 
Spanish, French or Dutch, or the like, contrary to the alle- 
giance which we profess and owe to our dread sovereign Lord, 
King Charles, his heirs and successors, while he is pleased 
to protect us as his loyal subjects. 

" 9. Rebellion, sedition or insurrection, by taking up arms 
against the present government, established in the country. 

'"''Rebellious children, whether they continue in evil or drunk- 
enness, after due correction from their parents, or whether 
they curse and smite their parents. Deut. xxi. 18. Lev. x. 
9, 10 ; xxi. 15, 17. 

" 10. Murder, which is wilful man-slaughter, not in a man's 
necessary and just defence, or casually committed, but out of 
hatred and cruelty. 

"11. Adultery — defiling of the marriage bed. 

" 12. Defiling of a woman espoused. 

" 13. Incest, which is the defiling of any that are of kin 
within the degrees prohibited in Lev. — Unnatural lusts. 

"14. Man-siealing. 

" 15. False-witness against life." 

In the preceding abstract, the scripture references are given 



SECT. 5.] SOUTHAMPTON. 191 

as far as legible, but some of them may not be perfectly cor- 
rect, in consequence of the mutilations of the original. They 
are sufficient, however, to show the origin of their laws, and 
their reverence for the word of God. Southampton formed 
an alliance with Hartford colony in 1644. 

The following municipal regulations show, with what care 
they guarded against the ingress of unwholesome inhabitants. 

" 1648. It is ordered that Thomas Robinson shall be ac- 
cepted as an inhabitant, and have a £50 lot granted unto 
him ; provided, the said Thomas be not under any scandalous 
crime, which may be laid to his charge, within six months, 
and that he carry himself, and behave as becometh an honest 
man. 

" It is further ordered that Samuel Dayton be accepted as 
an inhabitant, and have a £50 lot granted unto him, provided 
that the said Samuel (being a stranger to us) were of good 
approbation in the colony he last lived in, and do demean 
himself well here, for the time to approbation ; namely, six 
months to come." 

At an earlier period (1645) it was ordered that "a reward 
of five shillings" be paid " to any person, who shall discover, 
and give information of a whale, or part of a whale, cast 
upon the shore." But it is expressly added, "if any whale 
be found on the LorcVs day, the above five shillings shall 
not be due or payable." 

In 1644, " an agreement was made with Edward Howell to 
build a mill — the people to assist in making the dam — fur- 
nish the mill-stones and grant a forty acre lot adjoining." 
This same site is still occupied as a mill-seat, about three 
miles east of the village, and has always borne the name of 
" the Water-mill." 

It has been doubted by some, whether a church was regu- 
larly organized at the commencement of this settlement. 
The foundation of this doubt is an early instrument in which 
that event is spoken of as future. But it will be recollected, 
that this was one of the first agreements entered into by the 
"undertakers" while forming their company in Massachu- 
setts. Besides, Hubbard expressly records the fact, that they 
were organized into a church before they left Lynn, and 
chose the Rev- Mr. Pierson as their pastor. And this seems 
to be confirmed by the subsequent conduct of Mr. Pierson, 
who, possessing the sentiments in regard to government 
which he afterwards developed, would not have been likely to 
embark in establishing a colony, in which there was no 



192 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

church. It is, therefore, more than probable, that a church 
had been regularly organized before they came to the island. 
The precise date of their arrival at Southampton has not 
been ascertained ; but their disappointment and detention on 
the western part of the island, make it evident that it was 
later in the season, than the settlement at Southold, which had 
been commenced the same year. A patent for 8 miles 
square, at this place, given by Farrett, is dated July 7th, 
1640. 

Churches, &c. 

The first house of worship was erected in 1640. [See 
"A Manual" of this church published in 1843.) ft was pro- 
bably a small temporary building. 

In 1651 the second was built which remained more than 
half a century. 

In 1707, the third edifice was erected, which was furnished 
with a bell ancf clock, probably the first church on the island, 
that could boast of both these appendages, the drum having 
been previously used to assemble the people for public 
worship. 

In 1820, this building was thoroughly repaired, and the in- 
terior remodeled and modernized. 

In 1843, a new church was erected, which is a handsome 
building, finished in the gothic style. 

In the following year the old house was disposed of, re- 
moved, and finished off for a Methodist chapel. 

In 1831, an Academy was erected, and a very respectable 
school has since been maintained. 

Ministers. 

The Rev. Abraham Pierson was the first minister. He 
came with the first company of " undertakers. 1 ' He was a 
conscientious, able and excellent man. He, however, re- 
mained here only four years. A majority of the inhabitants 
deciding to unite with the government of Hartford in prefer- 
ence to Newhaven, which latter colony made church-member- 
ship a necessary qualification for exercising the rights of free- 
men ; and Mr. P. being with the minority, they removed in 
1644 to Branford, within the jurisdiction of Newhaven. 
Upon the consolidation of the two colonies in 1662, under 
the name of Connecticut, Mr. P. and his associates, true to 
their former principle, removed to New Jersey, and laid the 
foundation of Newark, where he died in 1680. 



SECT. 5.] SOUTHAMPTON. 193 

The Rev. Joseph Fordham, the second minister, was settled 
not long afterwards — in 1645 or '6, and died in 1674. 

The Rev. John Herriman was the third minister of this 
church, from 1675 to 1680. Of him, little is known. It ap- 
pears, ho\v r ever, that after his return, to Connecticut, he ad- 
dressed a letter to Mr. Thomas Cooper, in which he dunned 
the congregation for some supposed arrearages of salary. 

The letter having been presented, and considered in town- 
meeting, the following answer was voted : — 

"Mr. Herriman was so long absent, and the town paid so 
much for him, which he himself promised to repay ; also 
considering the manifold inconveniences that he exposed the 
town unto, Mr. Herriman in equity ought to make the town 
compensation, than that they should pay him one penny for 
his last half year's pains among us." 

For aught that appears, this was the final settlement be- 
tween them. 

There seems to be some difficulty in reconciling all the 
statements about this gentleman. If the writer is not mis- 
taken, Dr. Bacon mentions this same Mr. H. as a minister at 
Newhaven, at least during a part of the time, that he is here 
recognised as the pastor of Southampton. There may indeed 
be some mistake of dates, or his being " long absent" may 
have been occasioned by frequent labours at Newhaven. 

The Rev. Joseph Taylor, their fourth pastor, was sent for 
in 1680. He came and after spending the winter with them, 
when about to return to his family, they made a contract 
with him for his permanent support. 

As affording some view of the competency of ministerial 
support in those days, and also, the mode of payment, in the 
great scarcity of the precious metals, not only here, but in other 
settlements on the Island, the following specifications of their 
agreement will be interesting. 

They promised him "a salary of £100, and the sole use 
of the house and land formerly built and laid out for the minis- 
try, together with another end to be built to the said house, 
and 180 acres of commonage." 

Also %i 100 acres of land in the woods or commons, to him 
and his heirs for ever," together with 4 acres that was some 
time part of the ox-pasture, opposite Mr. Herriman's house-lot. 
This conveyance in fee, is evidently founded on the New 
England principle of giving a minister what they called " a 
settlement" which might be 'considered a sort of equivalent 

9 



194 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

for the expense incurred in qualifying himself for the sacred 
office. When the settlement of a minister was regarded as a 
permanent contract, such an arrangement was not only kind 
and proper, but strictly just ; and placed him m a situation 
immediately, to be more useful to his people. 
It was further stipulated, that 

" The town make up sufficient posting for all the fence 
against the land for the ministry— the western parcel to be 
fenced hereafter when Mr. Taylor shall need it." 
The salary to be paid as follows, viz. : 

" In winter wheat at 5 shillings per bushel 
" summer wheat 4s. 6d. 
«' Indian corn - 2 6 
" Beef - - 40 shillings per cwt. 

» Pork - 10 

" Tallow - - 3 pence per lb. 
" Green hides - 3 " 

" Dry ditto - 6 " 

" Whalebone - 8 

a Oil - - 30 shillings per bbl. 

All good and merchantable to be collected by the constable." 
If the difference of the value of these various articles, and 
consequently the comparative expense of living be taken into 
consideration, Mr. Taylor's salary will probably be found to 
have been more liberal than is now paid, in many congregations 
in Suffolk county. He did not, however, live long to enjoy the 
liberal provision made for his support. He died at an early 
age, in 1682. 

The Rev. Joseph Wilting was the fifth minister of this 
place. In what year he came to the town is not certainly 
known, though it is supposed in 1683. In the town meeting 
in 1687 it was agreed to pay him the same salary, and at the 
same rates, as had been agreed on with Mr. Taylor ; with this 
addition, that " if Mr. Whiting continued with them till his 
death, and his wife survived him, the town should pay her 
£100." 

During the ministry of Mr. Whiting (May 27th, 1695,) thr 
town voted to give to Mr. Ebenezer White and his heirs for 
ever, 15 acres of land anywhere convenient, on condition of 
his settling as minister at Saggaponock and Meacox, and 
continuing till his death or 7 years from the above date. 
This was the organization of a new congregation 6 miles east, 
which was afterwards called, and is still known as Bridge- 
hampton ; whose history will hereafter be given, 



SECT. 5.] SOUTHAMPTON. 105 

Mr. Whiting died in 1716, having completed a ministry in 
this place of more than 30 years. 

In Sept. 1716, a call addressed to Mr. Samuel Gelston, was 
laid before the Presbytery of Philadelphia, which was the only 
ecclesiastical body of that denomination in this country at 
that time ; and had been organized about 1 years before. 
In this call, the congregation of Southampton promise " to 
subject themselves to the Presbytery in the Lord." Here, 
then, is the first evidence of the adoption of the Presbyterian 
form of government in the County of Suffolk. Mr. Gelston 
was, at that time a licentiate, and had been received under 
the care of the Presbytery " on satisfactory credentials," the 
year preceding. He came from New England, but had recently 
emigrated from Ireland ; and whether he had been licensed 
in the old country or the new, is not ascertained. Having 
accepted the call, he preached a trial sermon by appointment 
of the Presbytery, which was approved. 

The Presbytery at the close of these sessions, having agreed 
to divide into four distinct Presbyteries, (united in one Synod) 
committed the further trials and ordination of Mr, Gelston, to 
the Presbytery of Long Island, which was one of the four. 
This was the first Presbytery erected in the Province of New 
York, and for 20 years or more had jurisdiction over the 
churches subsequently formed in the city of New York and 
West Chester. 

The Presbytery of Long Island met and constituted at 
Southampton, April 17th, 1717, and having completed the 
trials of Mr. Gelston, " he was ordained by Masters McNish, 
Phillips and Pamry, according to appointment :" and these 
three gentlemen undoubtedly constituted the whole of the 
Presbytery at its organization.* 

Mr. Gelston remained in charge of this congregation till 
1726, when he was dismissed and removed to Maryland, 
where he a was settled for a number of years, within the bounds 
of the Presbytery of New Castle. He subsequently fell under 
censure, and was suspended from the ministry on the charge 
,pf " drunkenness and some other crimes." 

* It is a matter of regret that the Records of this original Presbytery 
of Long Island are lost. It is barely possible that in the reorganisation of 
the Presbytery in 1738, they might have been transferred to the keeping of 
some person in New York or East Jersey, which were then united with 
Long Island under one Presbytery, bearing the name of New York. If 
they are yet in existence, their recovery would shed much light on the 
early history of Presbyterianism on Long Island. 



196 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PAUT 2, 

The Rev. Silvanus White, the sixth pastor, was settled Nov. 
17th, 17*27. He was the son of the Rev. Ebenezer White, at 
that time pastor of the neighbouring parish of Bridgehampton. 
He was born in 1704. He was early sent to Massachusetts 
for education, where he was fitted for college, and graduated 
at Harvard in 1723, and was ordained to the charge of this 
church as above stated, in whose service he spent a long and 
devoted life, in the enjoyment of almost uninterrupted health. 
His ministry was of 55 years continuance; and he died Oct. 
22nd, 1782, after a short illness of 7 days, in the full possession 
of his mental powers, and rejoicing in the hope of a blessed 
immortality. He is said to have been an able and popular 
preacher — a laborious and useful pastor. 

During the two succeeding years, this church remained 
without a pastor, but was supplied with preaching by Messrs. 
Ozias and James Eels, of whom nothing more than their names 
has been ascertained. 

The Rev. Joshua Williams, the seventh pastor, was ordained 
May 26th, 1784, and dismissed April 21st, 1789. 

During another vacancy of 3 years the church was supplied 
by Messrs. Strong and Mills, of whom even their christian 
names are not retained. 

The Rev. Herman Dagget, the eighth pastor, was ordained 
here April 12th, 1792. He was born at Wrentham, Mass., 
Oct. 3rd, 1765. At an early period after his settlement, diffi- 
culties arose in the church, which rendered his situation ex- 
tremely uncomfortable, and called for the interference of the 
Presbytery, though with very little beneficial effect. The 
occasion was one of general interest to the churches, and was 
the prolific cause of agitation for many years. 

It is a matter of record in the history of the New England 
churches, that a venerable Synod assembled in Boston in 1662, 
sanctioned the practice of administering baptism to the chil- 
dren of those parents who were themselves baptized persons, 
upon their " owning the covenant" as it was called, without 
any pretensions to personal piety, and with the full under- 
standing that they might live in the habitual neglect of the 
other special ordinance. This was called ** the half -way cove, 
nant," on which a man might stand as the poet describes him — 
" One foot within the church's pale 
And t'other out of doors." 
It was also called " the indulgent plan," and such it proved to 
be in the widest sense. The practice at first met with violent 
opposition, but gradually gained ground, till it extended over 



SECT. 5.] SOUTHAMPTON. 197 

all the N. E. churches, and into other parts of the land. 
Long Island was brought universally under its dominion. It 
was undoubtedly designed by the original inventors of this 
scheme, that this " privilege" should be restricted to persons 
of good moral character, and free from scandal. But it is 
obvious, that when the pale of the church had been once re- 
moved, no man could tell, and no two could agree, on the pre- 
cise line of separation between two parts of an unbelieving 
world. As a necessary consequence, " indulgence" was 
gradually extended, till in many congregations persons of 
grossly profane lives were permitted to have their children 
baptized ; and even those who in presenting their children, 
publicly admitted that they were guilty of scandalous offences. 
The writer himself bore witness, in early life, to scores of 
cases, which justify these remarks. And so violent were such 
persons in asserting their claims on this subject, that they 
would often say, they would never sit under the preaching 
of a minister who would not baptize their children. 

Mr Dagget, though not the first, was among the first minis- 
ters of the L. I. Presbytery to resist this awful profanation of a 
divine ordinance. This produced the difficulty at the very 
outset of his ministry in Southampton, which continued with 
unabated violence, till he deemed it his duty to resign his 
charge. He was dismissed June 8th, 1795. It may be added 
here, that the " half-way covenant'' has many years since 
been banished from the Presbyterian churches of the Island ; 
but the church in this place was one of the last to consent to 
its exile. 

Mr. Dagget continued several years on the Island, and his 
name will be found in connection with the history of other 
churches. He was finally dismissed from the Presbytery 
Aug 17th, 1809, and removed to Connecticut. He however 
manifested his strong attachment to Presbyterianism, by tak- 
ing his dismission to unite with the Presbytery of Hudson, 
which then lay on the western boundary of that state. It 
appears that he did not find it convenient to form that con- 
nection, until he became Principal of the Missionary School 
at Cornwall, Conn. Then he applied, and was received May 
1st, 1823, into the Presbytery of North River (the Hudson 
Presbytery having in the mean time been divided, of which he 
continued a member till his death, which took place May 16th, 
1S32. 

Having gone to his reward it is proper to state his character, 
which may be expressed in a few words, though it is worthy 
of a volume. 



198 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

Mr. Dagget was a man of sterling talents, respectable ac- 
quirements, and peculiar excellence of character. To all his 
other attainments as a scholar, he added singular neatness 
and an exact systematic arrangement of all his various duties. 
He was remarkably dignified in his manners, and circumspect 
in his deportment. Though social in his habits, and cheerful 
in his intercourse with others, always presenting a pleasant 
countenance, he was never known to laugh. His christian 
circumspection, and his characteristic excellence as a minis- 
ter, were comprehensively expressed by one of his brethren, 
in a single line, " Brother Dagget is just a Jit man to preach 
to ministers." 

The Rev. David S. Bogart, the ninth pastor, came here 
shortly after Mr. Dagget's dismission. He was a licentiate 
of the Reformed Dutch Church. Being very acceptable to 
the people, and not having the same scruples with his prede- 
cessor, he received an early invitation to settle. But before 
the necessary arrangements were made for his ordination, he 
received an invitation to a Dutch Church in Albany, which 
he accepted, and removed thither. la 1798, this church being 
encouraged to renew their call, Mr. B. accepted it, and was 
ordained May 31st, 1798. 

In 1806, he received a call to the Dutch church in Bloom- 
ingdale, and, being dismissed Nov. 6th, he removed to New 
York. The next spring, this church again renewed their call 
to Mr. B., and he was re-installed June 17th, 1807. He was 
finally dismissed April 15th, 1813, and removed to Queen's 
County, where he will again come under notice. 

From 1813 to '16, this congregation had no settled pastor, 
and were supplied by various individuals, of whom the Rev. 
Joshua Hart, and Messrs. Andrews and Fuller, Herman Hal- 
sey and Amos Bingham were the principal. 

The Rev. John 31. Babbit, the tenth pastor, was installed 
Nov. 19th, 1817, and was dismissed April 18th, 1821. 

The Rev. Peter H. Shaw, the eleventh pastor, was ordained 
Sept. 19th, 1821, and dismissed June 2nd, 1829. 

The Rev. Daniel Beers, the twelfth pastor, was installed 
June 8th, 1830, and dismissed April 21st, 1835. 

The Rev. Hugh N. Wilson, the thirteenth and present pas- 
tor, commenced his labours here in 1835, and was ordained 
June 29th, 1836. 

This congregation has participated in those blessed seasons 
of refreshing, which have been noticed, both in the preceding 
and present century. The last distinguished revival was in 
1842-3, in which large accessions were made to the church. 



SECT. 5.] SOUTHAMPTON. 199 

This town, like most of the others on the island, contains 
several distinct settlements, which are designated by different 
names, called "villages," and generally constitute separate 
parishes ; in some of them, churches of different denomina- 
tions exist. In this town are Bridgehampton, (including Sagg, 
Mecocks, the Hay Ground and Scuttle Hole,) Sag Harbour, 
Shinnecock Neck, Canoe Place, Good Ground, Westhampton 
(including Quogue, Ketchabonock and Speonk ;) Flanders, 
with several smaller settlements on the North shore, as Red 
Creek, Sebonack, North Sea, Noyack and North Side. Such 
as have ecclesiastical organization, will be successively 
noticed. 

Bridgehampton is a parish situated 6 miles east of the old 
town-spot, and was made a distinct congregation nearly 30 
years after the formation of the first settlement. It was then 
called Saggaponock and Mecocks. The actual settlement 
was commenced here as early as in the other part of the 
town ; though its advance was slower. Thomas Topping, 
the progenitor of the numerous family bearing that name, 
established himself in Sagg, as the eastern district is now 
called, in 1640. When the church was organized here there 
are no means of determining, though it was probably not far 
from the time of the settlement of their first minister in 1695. 
The people of this congregation participated in the same gene- 
ral views and feelings, with those of Southampton, being 
strongly allied in affinity and interest. As an evidence of 
their religious character in the early history of the congrega- 
tion, it is said, that " family worship was generally maintained, 
and the sabbath universally sanctified." And they have re- 
tained to the present day, more of the unaffected simplicity, 
and unaspiring demeanour of the puritan character, than can 
be discovered in the aspect of society in the mother settle- 
ment 

Churches. 

The first House of worship in this parish was erected about 
the time of Mr. White's settlement, near the close of the 17th 
century. It was placed on the west side of Sagg Pond, about 
one mile south-east of the present edifice. 

The second Church was built in 1737, one mile north of 
the former site, on the road leading from the centre of Sagg 
Street to Southampton. It was 38 by 54 feet, with full gal- 
leries, and afforded accommodations for a large congregation. 
The first sermon in this house was preached by Mr. White, 



200 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

the first pastor, from 2 Chron. vi. 18, and the last, by the pre- 
sent pastor, Mr. Francis, June 12th, 1842, from Lev. xvi. 13. 
It remained, with little alteration, except in the arrangement 
of the interior, for the space of 105 years. 

In 1842, the old building was pulled down, and a new one 
erected about half a mile to the north-west. It was dedicated 
in December of that year; and for simple beauty, chaste 
neatness, just proportions, and absolute convenience, it is not 
exceeded by any church in the county. 

It is not unworthy of notice here, that from the first settle- 
ment of this parish, there have been three principal burying 
places, in the different districts, and it has so happened that 
the remains of the three pastors, who spent their lives in 
the service of this church, are severally buried in these dif- 
ferent burial grounds. 

In the time of the great excitement in 1740-50, a separate 
church was organized here, "and a small house of worship 
erected in 1748, about 2 miles west of the centre. A more 
particular notice of this schism will be taken hereafter. This 
church has long since become extinct ; the building removed 
and converted into a dwelling. 

A methodist society was organized here, and a small church 
erected in 1820, near the site of the Presbyterian Church. 
This was disposed of, and a new and more commodious one 
erected in 1833. 

Ministers. 

The Rev. Ebenezer White was the first pastor of this church- 
He was born in Weymouth, Mass., in 1672 — graduated at 
Harvard, in 1692, and was ordained here, October 9th, 1695, 
in which year, as has been previously noticed, the people of 
Southampton, in town meeting, voted to give him in fee 15 
acres of land, in consideration of his taking the charge of thi3 
new congregation. He continued in this relation 53 years, 
resigned upon the settlement of his successor in 1748, and 
died February 4th, 1756, at the age of 84 years. He is said 
to have been an able and useful minister. His descendants of 
the sixth generation are still living here. 

The Rev. James Brown was ordained the second pastor, 
June 15th, 1748, at which time Mr. White resigned. Ac- 
counts differ as to his origin. According to one, he was a na- 
tive of Mendham, N. J., and according to another, he was a 
descendant of the Rev. Chad Brown, of Rhode Island. He 
was a graduate of Yale, in 1747. " He was distinguished for 



SECT. 5.] SOUTHAMPTON. 201 

great soundness in his theological views and ably defended 
the great doctrines of the reformation." In consequence of 
gi*eat bodily infirmities, he resigned his charge, March 27th, 
1775, and continued to reside here till his death, which took 
place April 22d, 1788, at the age of 68 years. 

The congregation remained vacant during the whole of the 
revolutionary war, and several years afterwards. This was a 
season of peculiar privation and trial, to all the churches of 
the island, but especially those that were destitute of the pri- 
vileges of the gospel. The people of this congregation suffer- 
ed greatly, in both their temporal and spiritual concerns. To 
avoid annoyance from the enemy, whose troops were stationed 
at different points in their vicinity, not a few deserted their 
homes in the early part of the contest, and were voluntary 
exiles during the war. Those who remained behind, drew 
out the tedious years in constant apprehension, solitude and 
gloom. Religious privileges were almost entirely removed. 
The holy Sabbath still returned, but it was only to remind 
them of what they once enjoyed. Their sanctuary was not 
indeed desecrated, as many of the churches of the island were, 
by the sacrilegious foe, but it was a deserted house. Add to 
all this the demoralizing influences of war — and that too, un- 
der circumstances that almost entirely suspended the operation 
of those institutions, under which they had lived and prospered. 
From these causes it is not strange, that the church was re- 
duced to the verge of extinction, and did not recover strength, 
till several years after the peace, to re-establish the gospel 
among them. And even then, they met with several disap- 
pointments, before their eyes were permitted to behold their 
teacher. 

The Rev. Aaron Woolworth, D.D., the third pastor, was or- 
dained August 30th, 1787. He was born at Long Meadow, 
Mass., October 25th, 1763, and graduated at Yale, in 1784. 
His honorary degree was conferred at Princeton, in 1809. 
Though of small stature, and by no means of prepossessing as- 
pect, he was one of the most able, discriminating, and pious 
divines that Long Island was ever blessed with. His epitaph, 
though written by the hand of friendship, contains not a word 
of fulsome flattery, or empty compliment. He was all that is 
therein claimed on his behalf. He died of a short illness, in 
the full vigour of all his powers, April 4th, 1821. His remains 
lie interred in the burying ground adjoining the new church, 
over which a table stone has been placed by his affectionate 
people, bearing the following inscription : — 



202 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

SACRED TO THE MEMORY 

of the 

Rev. Aaron Woolworth, D.D., 

Who departed this life 
April 2, 1821, in the 58th year 
of his age, and the 34th of his ministry. 
He was born at Long Meadow, Mass., Oct. 25, 1763, 
graduated at Yale College in 1784, was 
ordained and installed Pastor of this congregation, 
April 30, 17S7, received the honorary degree 
of D. D. from Princeton College, in 1809, & 
was constituted a life-member of the American 
Bible Society by the ladies of his congre- 
gation, in 1817. 
Possessed of a sound, active and powerful mind, 
richly stored with the treasures of literature & 
science, and of a tender, and benevolent heart early 
sanctified by divine grace, he adorned the 
relations of friend, brother, husband, parent & 
minister. 
As a christian, he aimed to keep his heart with all 
diligence, and to adorn the doctrine of God his 
Saviour in all things. 
As a divine, he was mighty in the scriptures, 
& had investigated the whole field of Theolo- 
gical science. As a Preacher, he was instructive, 
discriminating &; pungent. And as a Pastor, 
he was faithful to his flock and abounded in all 
the duties of the sacred office. 
His death was peaceful & happy. 

This stone was erected as a testimony of 
respect and affection by his congregation. 

Mrs. Mary Woolworth, the relict of this excellent man, 
and daughter of the late Rev. Dr. Buel of Easthampton, died 
at Homer, N. Y., September 10, 1845 ; aged 76 years. 



SECT. 5.] SOUTHAMPTON. 203 

The Rev. Amzi Francis, the fourth pastor, was ordained 
April 17th, 1823, and still retains a pleasant and useful con- 
nexion with his people. 

It is a fact highly creditable to this congregation, that they 
have existed just 150 years, during which time they have had 
only four pastors ; and that they have never dismissed a min- 
ister except from failure of health. 

While this work was in press, the following notice appeared 
in the N. Y. Observer : — 

Died, at Bridgehampton, L. I., on Saturday morning, Oct. 
18th, the Rev. Amzi Francis, pastor of the Presbyterian 
church in that place, aged 52 years. In the death of this ex- 
cellent man, his family and people have experienced an un- 
speakable affliction, but mingled with peculiar mercy. His 
sickness was only of twelve days' continuance, and severe ; 
but his mind was unclouded, and his confidence in the Rock 
of Ages unshaken till the closing scene. A short time before 
he expired, after giving direction respecting his funeral, he 
remarked, that "he had never conceived it possible, in this 
mortal state, to have such views of the heavenly world, as he 
was permitted to enjoy." — "Mark the perfect man, and con- 
sider the upright ; for the end of that man is peace." 

Revivals. 

This church enjoyed great harmony and peace for nearly 
50 years from its organization ; though we have no record of 
any season of special refreshing during that period. But in 
the great awakening of 1741-2, which has been previously 
referred to, a general, and, in some respects, a salutary ex- 
citement was produced in this congregation. In its progress, 
however, the new-light spirit was introduced by the Rev. Mr. 
Davenport ; and here it was attended with more disastrous 
and abiding consequences, than in some other congregations. 
It soon began to develope itself in open denunciations of the 
aged pastor, and the cry was raised, " Come out and be ye 
separate." A painful schism was soon made, a separate 
church formed, a small house of worship erected, and distinct 
service maintained. 

At the time of Mr. Brown's settlement in June, 1748, the 
Presbytery spent a whole day in trying to convince " the 
separatists that they had violated the rules of the gospel in 
their separation," and they " laboured the point with great 
pains and industry, but without any visible success till noon." 
The greater part of the afternoon was spent with as little sue- 



204 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

cess, while they say, we " observed much seeming stiffness to 
our common grief.'' But " towards the close of the day, the 
following confession was subscribed by the most of the sepa- 
rate people." 

" We the subscribers, inhabitants or professors in the parish 
or church of Bridgehampton, who have separated ourselves 
from the ministry of the Rev. Mr. White, in said Bridgehamp- 
ton, do freely acknowledge and confess as follows:— 

" That although according to the light we then had, we 
suppose the cause of our separation to be just, yet as to the 
manner of our separating, in some respects, we are very sen- 
sible it was not agreeable to the rules of Christ's visible king- 
dom, and on that account we ate sorry for it. And we desire 
and resolve (the grace of God enabling,) for the future, to 
walk according to the rules of the gospel of Jesus Christ." 

This document was signed by 16 males and 12 females. 

" A pacific and hortatory address" was then prepared to be 
read to the church and congregation after the adjournment, 
with a concession of the aged pastor, which seemed calculated 
to soothe the feelings of the separatists. But little permanent 
good seemed to result from these gentle measures. Some 
few, it would seem, returned to the church from which they 
had withdrawn, but the separate altar was still maintained. 
For a number of years the Rev. Elisha Paine laboured among 
them, and they still kept up their distinct organization. But 
when the excitement of those days had subsided, it was diffi- 
cult to keep the wheels in motion. The congregation was 
never large, and instead of increasing, it gradually diminish- 
ed. The scenes of the revolutionary war and other causes 
hastened the result. In the early part of Dr. Woolvvorth's 
ministry, the last remnants of the schism abandoned their 
separate organization — sold their house of worship, and they 
principally returned to the old congregation, which now occu- 
pies the entire territory, with the exception of the Methodist 
society established of late years. 

At the time of Dr. Woohvorth's settlement, the church con- 
sisted of only 33 members, a majority of whom were females. 
The early part of his ministry was not altogether unblessed, 
but no general revival was enjoyed till the year 1800, of 
which a detailed account was published. Again in 1809, and 
yet again in 1816, extensive effusions of the spirit were be- 
stowed. In 1810 the church consisted of 179 members. Dur- 
ing the whole period of Dr. W.'s ministry, including the year 



SECT. 5.] SOUTHAMPTON. 205 

after his decease, 252 persons had been added, and 166 had 
died. In the whole congregation more than 600 had died. 

Under the present pastor, the years 1831 and 1842 have 
been distinguished as seasons of refreshing ; and the congre- 
gation is probably in as prosperous circumstances, as at any 
previous period of its history. Since the settlement of Mr. F. 
147 have been added ; 93 have died, and there are 177 now 
in communion. 



Since the preceding was written, the writer has providen- 
tially fallen upon a MSS. of the Rev. Dr. Wool worth, giving 
somewhat in detail, the religious history of this congregation, 
from which the following extracts are taken. It was proba- 
bly written in 1819-20, one or two years before his death. 

" It appears that much harmony had always subsisted be- 
tween Mr. White and his charge, till quite the latter part of 
his ministry. The religious state of things had, it is believed, 
been here, as it was extensively through the country. Sound- 
ness in the faith was maintained, and the form of godliness 
observed, with perhaps more strictness than at this day. But 
there was, in general, a great declension in the power of reli- 
gion. What are now called ' revivals' were rare — scarcely 
heard of at all in any direction ; though it is not to be doubt- 
ed, that there were many pious people in the church, who 
sighed in secret over the desolations of Zion, and prayed for 
a time of refreshing from the presence of the Lord. This 
state of things continued till the revival of 1742. — This re- 
vival, which spread extensively in other parts, made its way 
to Long Island, and to this place, and in various respects was 
connected with great good. Multitudes, under the powerful 
preaching of the word, were awakened, convinced, and hope- 
fully converted to God. Such a time had never been known 
from the first settlement of the country. But from the long 
preceding state of supineness, and the novelty of the scene 
now disclosed, as was perhaps to have been expected, great 
disorders attended. The grand adversary, fearing the loss of 
his dominions in one way, sought to retain them in another. 

" As was the case in other parts of the country, a separa- 
tion took place here connected with no small degree of 
acrimony, unchristian bitterness, prejudice and recrimination, 
which greatly marred the work of God, grieved its friends, 
and afforded to its enemies occasion to blaspheme. This 
separation, which continued and rendered the state of the 



206 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

church, and the evening of the minister's life unhappy, became 
permanent under the ministry of his successor. Its whole 
duration was more than 50 years and extended down to the 
great revival of 1800 ; when an accommodation was brought 
about, and the individuals, who were then members of the 
withdrawn church, came and united with their brethren, which 
has been a source of much mutual comfort and edification. 
The persons who were concerned have almost universally 
gone to give up their account, to their righteous Judge. Our 
great concern should be to profit by the infirmities, imperfec- 
tions and faults of others — never forgetting the vastly differ- 
ent light, in which the conduct we may exhibit at any time, 
"under the impulse and heat of passion, will appear, when our 
actions shall be reviewed before the impartial bar of God. 

" In the course of Mr. Brown's ministry there were various 
seasons of special revival. But far the most signal was 
that of the year 1764. This very memorable period of rich 
and distinguishing grace, a few of you perhaps remember. 
But the minister who then preached, and the people who re- 
ceived his word, have, almost all entered into their rest. 
The unfaithful are also dead, and how solemn the thought ! 
— I mention it for the warning of those now living in impeni- 
tence and unbelief. This revival embodied the great mass of 
character and influence in the church. Zion prospered. Its 
salutary effects extended down to the close of Mr. Brown's 
ministry in 1774. 

" The revolutionary war, you recollect, commenced the next 
year ; and the desolations, which, during its 7 years' continu- 
ance passed over the church, were great and dreadful. Many 
were driven into exile ; and those that remained were as sheep 
without a shepherd, destitute of the preaching of the word 
and the administration of gospel ordinances. How similar 
was their state to that of the Jews in the Babylonish capti- 
vity ! Civil law, as well as Christian institutions, was, in a 
great measure suspended — iniquity abounded, divine influ- 
ence was withdrawn, and the church reduced exceedingly 
low. This was the state of things till the return of 
peace in 1783, which opened the way for the restoration of 
these ruins ; and God in mercy visited his weary heritage. 
Accordingly, on the regathering of the congregation from 
their dispersion, laudable attempts were made for the re-settle- 
ment of the ministry ; which after many failures succeeded 
in 1787, when your present minister was ordained on the 30th 
of August in that year. The church at that time renewed 



SECT. 5.] SOUTHAMPTON. 207 

covenant, which was signed by only 11 male members. 
From this time a state of harmony and peace existed for a 
number of years : but the faith and patience of the pious few- 
were long tried, before they were permitted to witness signal 
displays of divine power and grace. Though solitary instan- 
ces of conviction and hopeful conversion took place, that up- 
held and rather increased the church, it was a season of 
general coldness and declension, till the autumn of 1799. 
Before this there had been seasons which excited the expec- 
tations of the pious, that a revival was at the door ; but they 
were not realized. These hopeful appearances proved like 
the morning cloud. But at this time, the set time to favour 
Zion, the utmost expectations which had been indulged were 
far exceeded. The cloud of divine influence completely over- 
shadowed the congregation, and the rain of righteousness co- 
piously distilled on every part. The arm of the Lord was 
revealed, and who did not recognise and acknowledge its 
power ! The events of that memorable season are distinctly 
within the recollection of many yet living, when under the 
powerful influence of the Holy Ghost, this house, for three 
successive weeks, was every evening crowded with hearers, 
solemn as the grave, and listening as for their lives to the 
message of salvation. In the course of a few months, more 
than 130 indulged hope of their having passed from death to 
life. The change was by all ascribed to God, and it was 
marvellous in our eyes. 

" We were again visited in a manner little less signal in 
1808 and 9. The same humbling doctrines of total depra- 
vity and sovereign grace through Jesus Christ, as the only 
possible ground of the sinner's justification before God, with 
their kindred truths, were preached as before ; and, in the 
hand of the Spirit produced the same effects in the conviction 
and hopeful conversion of sinners. 

" In the winter of 1816, we were again favoured with the 
special displays of divine grace. Though compared with the 
preceding revivals, and even with those that were simul- 
taneously going forward at Easthampton, Sag Harbour and 
Shelter Island, the work here was small, yet nearly 30 ob- 
tained hope of their reconciliation to God. 

" Since that time it has been a season of much darkness 
and declension. In the glorious revival in Southampton last 
winter we had no share. Zion mourns in sackcloth. Frequent 
breaches within a year or two have been made in the removal 
of those who were pillars, which have not been repaired." 



208 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

It would be grateful to the writer's feelings to transcribe the 
warm and faithful exhortations with which this narrative of 
the man of God was followed up to his own people. But it 
would not comport with the object of this work. It is in 
point, however, to say, that the breaches, with allusion to 
which this interesting memoir closes, were vastly enlarged in 
a year or two after, by the removal of the main pillar of this 
church, in the death of Dr. Woolworth himself. 

SAG HARBOUR. 

This now important village is situated on the north 
shore of the south branch of the island, in the north- 
east corner of the township of Southampton, 5 miles north of 
Bridgehampton. The dividing line between Southampton 
and Easlhampton runs through the eastern main street, so 
that a part of the village, as heretofore intimated, lies in the 
north-west corner of the latter town. 

The site of the village is a perfect sand-bed ; and, conse- 
quently, agriculture presented no motive to the settlement of 
the place, which was commenced but a little more than 100 
years ago. About the year 1730 a few fishermen's cottages 
were erected along the shore ; but it was nearly bO years 
afterwards, before any considerable accession was made to 
their number. Among the first settlers, the names of Hicks, 
Fordham and Conklin were found. The descendants of the 
two latter still remain ; the first name does not now exist in 
the place. 

In 1760, a considerable addition was made to the popula- 
tion by the accession of several respectable families, whose 
enterprising spirit had marked the place as one possessing 
peculiar advantages for trade and fishing. Between 1760 
and '70, while as yet the commerce of New York was carried 
on principally by schooners and sloops, this little retired port 
had opened a small trade with the West Indies in larger craft. 
Col. Gardiner, at that time, owned and employed two brigs 
in that business, while several smaller vessels were busilv en- 
gaged in the fishing and coasting trade. At this early period, 
two or three sloops cruised in the Atlantic, a few degrees to 
the south, for whales, which were then so plenty, that more 
or less of them were taken every year, by boats, along the 
whole southern coast of the island.* 

The war of the revolution, as a matter of course, com- 
pletely interrupted the rising business of the place, which was 



SECT. 5.] SOUTHAMPTON. 209 

not resumed till the return of peace. At this time, Dr. Na- 
thaniel Gardiner and his brother sent out a ship called the 
Hope upon a whaling voyage, under the command of Capt. 
Ripley ; and a brig of the tirst class was despatched upon the 
same business. These voyages proved entirely unsuccessful, 
and almost an entire loss to the owners — the ship returning 
with only 30 bbls of oil, and the brig with still less. In 1785, 
Col. Benjamin Huntting of Southampton, and Capt. Stephen 
Howell embarked in the same enterprise, and sent out vessels 
which gradually extended their voyages to the coast of Bra- 
zil, and usually returned deeply laden with the treasures of 
the deep. The embargo of 1806, with the troublesome times 
that succeeded, resulting in the war of 1812-15, necessarily 
checked, and for a while suspended the increasing enterprise 
of the place. And a most disastrous fire, which occurred 
May 26th, 1817, and laid in ruins the most valuable portion 
of the village, gave a tremendous blow to the energies of the 
place, which were just beginning to recover from another 7 
years' suspension of trade, by virtual or actual warfare. But 
the enterprise of the people soon rose superior to all these un- 
toward events ; and, in a few years their exertions were not 
only crowned with success, but extended far beyond their 
most sanguine expectations, and at this moment are in the full 
tide of successful operation. 

By the vast extension of the whaling business in the Unit- 
ed States, and other countries, and the consequent scarcity of 
whales in the Atlantic, the principal theatre of these operations 
is now on the bosom of the great Pacific. So that these voy- 
ages, which, 30 years ago, were of only 10 or 12 months' du- 
ration, are now necessarily extended to 2 and 3 years. 

In 1807, there were only 4 ships owned and fitted out from 
this port. Now (1845) there are 61 ships and barks engaged 
in the whaling business, besides a number of smaller vessels 
in the coasting trade ; employing a capital of nearly $2,000,- 
000. The village included within the Fire District, which is 
the only incorporation that it enjoys, embraces a population, 
according to the recent State census, of 3,621 souls. Of these, 
2.924 are within the town of Southampton, and 697 in the 
town of Easthampton. Between 300 and 400 of the inhabi- 
tants spend the principal part of their lives on the " vasty 
deep." 

It is worth while to mention, that as early as 1771, an offi- 
cer was appointed " to inspect the trade and navigation of the 
harbours, bays, and creeksi" on the east end of Long Island, 



210 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

which was considered as included in the District of New 
London. Shortly after the organization of the Federal 
Government, Sag Harbour was made a distinct port of entry, 
and the necessary Custom House officers appointed. Henry 
P. Dering was appointed Collector by President Washington, 
in 1790, and held the office till his death, which occurred 
April 30th, 1822— a period of 32 years. 

This little port has been signalized by two small, but bril- 
liant military operations, one in the war of the revolution, and 
the other in that of 1812, which have rarely been exceeded in 
the history of our country. 

Every reader of American history, recollects the rapid and 
successful expedition of Lieut. Col. Meigs, in 1777, to Sag 
Harbour, for the purpose of destroying a quantity of provis- 
ions, which the British forces had collected here. Embark- 
ing at New Haven, on the 21st of May, in whale-boats, he 
was compelled, by the roughness of the Sound, to hold the 
Connecticut shore, till the 23rd. In the afternoon of that 
day, he left Guilford, with 170 men, in whale-boats, under the 
convoy of two armed sloops, and arrived at Southold about 
sun-set. Taking 130 men, and transporting their boats across 
the northern branch of the island, he embarked on the bay, 
for Sag Harbour, where he arrived after midnight, and land- 
ed at the foot of the beach, about 2 miles above the village. 
There concealing his boats in the bushes, and leaving a few 
men for a guard, he proceeded towards the Harbour. At the 
house now occupied by Mr. Silas Edwards, which was used as 
a hospital, he seized two men, who were taking care of the sick, 
whom he used as guides, and whom he threatened with in- 
stant death, for the least failure in executing his requirements. 
Under their direction, he was led to the quarters of the com- 
manding officer, whom he arrested and secured, while lying 
in his bed. At this juncture, an alarm was given, and a sin- 
gle shot was fired from an armed vessel, which, however, was 
not repeated, from the inability to determine the cause of the 
alarm. An outpost was immediately carried, with fixed bay- 
onets, and the land forces secured. He then proceeded to the 
shipping at the wharf; where, after being exposed to the fire 
of an armed schooner of 12 guns, and 70 men for nearly an 
hour, he completely effected the object of the expedition. In 
a short time, 12 brigs and sloops, one of which carried 12 
guns, were enveloped in flames— and with them 120 tons of 
hay, 10 hogsheads of rum, and a large quantity of grain and 
merchandize were completely destroyed. Of the enemy, 6 



SECT. 5.] SOUTHAMPTON. 211 

were killed, and 90 taken prisoners. The same day, Col. 
Meigs embarked for Guilford, where he arrived, after an 
absence of only 25 hours, during which he had transported 
his troops, alternately by land and water, a distance of 90 
miles, without the loss of a man. A more successful and 
brilliant affair does not grace the annals of the Revolution.* 

In June, 1813, while a British squadron, under Com. Hardy, 
lay in Gardiner's Bay, a launch and two barges, with 100 
men, attempted to surprise this place, in the night. They 
landed on the wharf, but an alarm being quickly given, the 
guns of a small fort were opened upon them with such effect, 
that they had only time to set fire to a single sloop, and re- 
treated with so much precipitation, as to leave a large quan- 
tity of guns, swords, and other arms behind them. The 
flames were speedily extinguished, and no other injury sus- 
tained. What a striking contrast, on the part of the assail- 
ants, between the result of this expedition, and that of Col. 
Meigs ! 

Churches. 

The first house of worship was erected here in 1768 ; and 
though of ample dimensions, and comfortably seated, it con- 
sisted of a mere frame and outward covering, without either 
ceiling or plaster. In this condition, it remained, as the wri- 
ter can testify, from 3 years' experience, till, if a shower of 
rain occurred during public worship, the minister was obliged 
to retreat to a corner of the ample pulpit, to escape the falling 
drops. And yet the people continued to " dwell in their ceiled 
houses" and let "this house lie waste." 

But in 1817, (the very year of the great fire,) the old 
house was pulled down, and another more commodious edi- 
fice erected on the same site, which still remains. 

In 1843, the congregation having become too numerous to 
be accommodated in this church, a very large and splendid 
edifice was erected a short distance from the former site, which 
was dedicated May 16th, 1844. Its steeple is 200 feet in 
height, and may be seen from the ocean, and upon the north- 
ern branch of the island. The whole building is finished in 
an elegant style, and furnished with a bell and clock, two im- 
portant and useful appendages of a house of worship. 

* Deacon John White, of Sagg, who died within a few years, was then 
a young man, and formed one of this brave party. Several of the above- 
mentioned particulars are derived from his recollections. He was a man 
of observation and sterling integrity. 



212 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2. 

In 1807 or '8, the Methodists commenced preaching in 
this village ; and in 1809 a small house of worship was erect- 
ed, which is still standing. In 1837, this congregation hav- 
ing increased with the increase of the village, a large and 
handsome edifice was erected in the eastern part of the place, 
a few rods over the line, within the town of Easthampton. It 
has a tower, and is furnished with a clock and bell. Plea- 
santly situated, it presents a commanding appearance on the 
adjacent waters. 

The former building was sold to the Roman Catholics, and 
is now of course, surmounted with a cross. 

The Baptists have recently organized a church here, and 
in 1844 they erected a neat and commodious edifice, which 
they now occupy. 

In the south-eastern part of the place, just within the East- 
hampton line, is a continuation of the village, called Snooks- 
ville, where an African M. E. (Zion,) Church was erected in 
1840, which has been regularly supplied with a minister. 

In the present year, (18 15,) an Academy has been erected, 
and the school recently opened, under favourable auspices ; 
which has heretofore been a great desideratum in this thriv- 
ing community. 

In the course of the present year, divine service after the 
forms of the Episcopal church has been commenced in this 
village. The Rev. H. F. Roberts, recently of the Methodist 
E. Church, is employed as a missionary here. As yet, no 
edifice has been erected. Service is at present held in the 
session-room of the Presbyterian Church. A church of 12 
communicants has been organized. 

MINISTERS. 

The first church, from the time of its organization, till near 
the close of the last century, was very feeble, and did not en- 
joy the labours of a settled pastor. They depended on oc- 
casional supplies, and now and then employed a temporary 
preacher for a few months. It was, however, the laudable prac- 
tice of this little band, when vacant, to meet on the Sabbath, 
for social devotion and the reading of approved sermons. 

It is impossible, at this late date, to recover the names of all 
the preachers, who laboured here for a longer or shorter time. 
The following were among them :— 

On application to the Presbytery, in April, 1789, Mr. John 
Taylor was appointed to preach at Sag Harbour, and Shelter 



(SECT. 5.] SOUTHAMPTON. 213 

Island. In 1792, the application for a supply was renewed, 
but no appointment is recorded. 

In 1794, a licentiate, of Mondon Association, Mass., whose 
name is forgotten, was appointed by the Presbytery to supply 
this people. 

The late Rev. James Richards, D.D., a name revered and 
loved throughout the church, made some of his first essays in 
this place to preach the everlasting gospel. And though he 
was here but a short time, his "labours of love " were highly 
appreciated by a pious few ; the most of whom, have already 
hailed him as the helper of their faith, and are now rejoicing 
with him in a brighter world. There was one precious saint, 
long since gone to her rest, whom the writer has often heard 
speak of the satisfaction and benefit which she derived, from 
the labours of that youthful servant of Christ, not only in the 
pulpit, but at the domestic fireside ; and the name of " Rich- 
ards " was music in her ears, to her dying day. 

The Rev. Daniel Hall, the first settled pastor, was ordained 
Sept. 21st, 1797, and continued till the spring of 1806, when 
he was dismissed and removed to Shelter Island. Mr. Hall 
had been previously a preacher of the flesh-pleasing doctrine 
of universal salvation, which he unequivocally renounced. He 
was a remarkably affectionate preacher — a son of consolation, 
rather than a boanerges. 

Shortly after Mr. Hall's removal, the congregation employed 
for a few months the Rev. Aaron Jordan Bogue, who after- 
wards forfeited his character, and was deposed by the Presby- 
tery of Columbia, of which he was a member. He lived and 
died a wretched man. 

The Rev. N. S. Prime, then a licentiate, commenced 
preaching here Oct. 26th, 1806, and continued, with little in- 
termission till the autumn of 1809. The peculiar circumstan- 
ces of the congregation at that time, were assigned as the 
reason for not making a permanent settlement for the minis- 
try, and Mr. P., though afterwards ordained by the Presbytery, 
was not installed here. 

The Rev. Stephen Porter, and a Mr. Gaylord from Con- 
necticut, supplied this congregation, each for some months. 

The Rev. John D. Gardiner was ordained pastor of this 
church Oct. 1st, 1812. He was dismissed June 16th, 1882, 
and has continued to reside in the place. 

The Rev. Samuel King commenced labouring here the first 
Sabbath in August, 1832. Besides his acceptableness as a 
preacher, he was possessed of peculiar personal excellence ; 



214 ANNALS OP THE TOWNS. [PART % 

and in a short time endeared himself to the people, who enter- 
tained highly- raised expectations of his future usefulness. But 
God, in his inscrutable providence, saw fit to disappoint their 
hopes. In a little more than a year he was removed by death. 
It is an evidence of the strong hold which this good man 
had on the affections of the congregation, that, after the lapse 
of more than 1 years, in completing the elegant church edi- 
fice, erected last year, they have placed in the wall, a beauti- 
ful white marble tablet, with the following inscription : — 

REV. SAMUEL KING, 
A NATIVE OF ENGLAND, 

Who departed this life Nov. 29th, 1833 ; 

After having ministered to this congregation 

One year and three months ; 

In the 42d year of his age. 



ftijis ©ablet, 

As a token of respect, 
is devoted to the memory of a stranger and a good man. 



The memory of the just is blessed. 



While admiring the peculiar neatness and simplicity of this 
memorial of departed excellence, the writer cannot forbear to 
mention the very appropriate locality which it occupies in the 
house of God. Instead of being placed within the auditory, 
as is too frequently the practice, in a conspicuous situation, 
to attract the attention of the congregation while engaged in 
divine worship, it is inserted in the wall of the vestibule, on 
the right of the inner door, where it meets the eye as you enter 
the outer court. On the left of the same door, is a corres- 
ponding niche, ready to receive a similar monument to some 
future worthy. Though it may be rare, it is always grateful 
to find the righteous held in lasting remembrance. 

The Rev. Ithamar Pillsbury was a stated supply to this 
congregation in 1834-5. 

The Rev. Joseph A. Copp, the present pastor, commenced 
his labours here in Oct. 1835, and was installed April 25th, 



SECT. 5.] SOUTHAMPTON. 215 

1838. The church and congregation have been greatly 
prospered under his ministry, and are much increased in num- 
bers and strength. 

Revivals. 

This church was organized in 1791, and consisted of only 
4 members, 2 of each sex. It was strictly independent in its 
organization, and congregational in its form of government, 
till 1810, when it was placed under the jurisdiction of tho 
L. I. Presbytery. In 1800 it numbered only 15 members. 

Though evangelical in its character, there was no special 
attention to religion previously to the year 1808-9; and while 
iniquity abounded, more or less, among all classes, the youth, 
without a single exception, appeared to be growing up in for- 
getfulness of God, and the interests of their immortal souls. 
As yet the church consisted of little more than 30 members, 
and only 3 of these ever assisted in maintaining devotional 
meetings. 

At that juncture it pleased the great Head of the Church 
to pour out his Spirit, " as rain on the mown grass, and as 
showers that water the earth." From Nov. 1808 to April 
1809 the work proceeded with deep solemnity, and a stillness 
like that of the grave, till more than 100, a large portion of 
whom were youth, were hopefully brought to the obedience 
of faith. From causes, which it is not proper here to detail, 
but which the records of the great day will disclose, the most 
of these were prevented from making a public profession of 
religion, till some years afterwards, excepting those who from 
the existing state of things, attached themselves to another 
denomination. But from that blessed year, the religious aspect 
of this village assumed a new colouring ; and from the fruits 
of that revival, have arisen many of the firmest pillars of this 
church, some of whom remain to this day, though the most of 
them " have fallen asleep." A few of the subjects of that 
blessed work are yet pursuing their pilgrimage, whose hearts 
will respond with deep intonations to this memento of former 
days. 

In relation to this first glorious work of grace, in this con- 
gregation, the present pastor makes the following remarks : — 

" Believers were refreshed in a remarkable manner — sinners 
were constrained by sovereign grace to bow to the cross of 
Christ, and numbers were added to the visible Church. The 
revival gave a great impulse to the cause of Christ, and im- 
parted to it a character and an influence which it never subse- 



S16 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

quently lost. The good effects of this first great work of 
grace are still seen and felt in the village." 

Again in 1816, a second remarkable refreshing was experi- 
enced. " The people of God who had greatly declined in 
his service, and become remiss and worldly, were aroused to 
duty. The impenitent on every hand, were awakened, alarmed 
and led to inquire *' What must we do ?" The work advanced 
with power, till a great and pleasing change was wrought in 
the whole moral aspect of the place, and multitudes hopefully 
brought into the fold of Christ. In the course of that year, 
90 persons were added to the communion of this church. 

The next notable revival occurred in 1842. '« Its first indi- 
cations became manifest in the preceding autumn, and con- 
tinued, with increasing power, throughout the winter till 
the following spring. During ' a part of this season, religion 
became the all-absorbing subject. In the streets, the shops, 
and the counting-rooms it was the general topic. A profound 
solemnity seemed to rest on the public ; and all business for 
a time was swallowed up in this one great concern. Hun- 
dreds by this work, were turned to the Lord in this village, 
and the moral condition of the whole community materially 
improved." 

During the winter of 1844-5, this village has again enjoyed 
the outpouring of the Spirit. The general characteristics of 
its rise and progress have been the same as in former seasons 
of mercy. 

Besides these remarkable visitations, this place has enjoyed 
many precious " seasons of refreshing from the presence of the 
Lord ;" so that this tract of arid sand may, in a spiritual 
point of view, be regarded as one of the most favoured ** moun- 
tains of Zion," on which *• the dew of Hermon hath oft de- 
scended," and " there the Lord hath commanded his blessing, 
even life for evermore." The present number of church 
members is 360. 

Shinnecock Neck is situated about 2 miles west of the village 
of Southampton, and is the residence of the remnants of the 
Shinnecock tribe of Indians. Their church formerly stood 
beyond the hills, about 3 miles west, within sight of the isth- 
mus called Canoe Place. It was afterwards removed a little 
to the west, at the spot where the grave of the Rev. Paul 
Cuffee is still to be seen (see page 117). The Indians having 
taken up their residence some years ago on this Neck, re- 
moved their church thither, where the Rev. William Benjamin 



SECT. 5.] SOUTHAMPTON. gjy 

supplies them half the time. They have also one of their 
own people who occasionally preaches among them. 

flw. I? P I T 1 " this Vicinit y a church was organised by 
the L I Presbytery, m 1319. But being feeble !nd having 

The 1 sf Z aCh{ ? 0I h r^/r S ^ " haS '--me exS 
bed ca LdT ? memberd " 3d ^st winter, and, on his dying 
ned, called the few remaining members around him, and re- 

townTl'l' ev,"f *"£? a ' Chul ' Ch ' " nder the nam<? of Wa "^- 
members '" V ' Cm ' ty ' "' hich COnsists of on! y 12 

Good GrowncZ is about 2 miles west of Canoe Place on the 
south road ; and though the lightness of the sou rnighl induce 
a stranger to question its claim to the above appellation it is 

T*t. „ f t , h "{ t and neatne «s about the little '• vfllage," 

In 18^ T C M y J l T Sed t0 dis P U,e the P° iRt - 
in 1836 the Method.sts erected a house of worship here 
which is the only one within 5 or 6 miles P ' 

F'anders is another small settlement on the north side 

t" iL m,le T :'r , Rive, ; head - ! fi °z direct, y - th;'p co : 

forest and JZ»? " ^"'S bUt h ™Z su '™nded by the 
ioi est, and situated on navigable waters, it has been a place 

25 S? trad ,f " tlW .7° ° d line - There »™ h-e some 6 
fortable but n!!| Wlthl , n a rail %«; hi <=b appear not only com- 
tortable, but neat ; and some of them are of very respectable 
dimensions. The most of these families const! uteTnart of 

woXn^eTt °d" f ^ ^^ > a " d a smail ^ of 
tiZ nT, < ^ ,' S a S ° rt of chaDe! of tha < congrega- 
mad'o. ecclesiastical organization has yet bfen 

WESTHAMTTOIY. 

Darfof fliT^Z beari , n g. this " ame I!os in tho south- western 
onk tL cenr; n, ; aC v d ' 1 ngQu ,° SUe ' Ketcha »o»ock and S P e, 

Phme ItTsdlffl ,T t id l " ab ° Ut 8 miles west of Canoe 
nace. 1 is difficult to trace the origin and progress of this 
congregation, as its early history is°combined w th tf at of 
the whole reg,o„ extending from Quogue to Fireplace which 

the m c e enL C °^ tltUt M a tf° ?™ Sh ° f which *S, "as 
of th! P ' , Cre i*!/ **"** Green^B, by appointment 
ot the Presbytery, laboured from 1748 to '49 ; and the Rev 
Abner Reeve was ordained as pastor, Nov. 6th, 755 A more 



21S ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

particular history of these individuals will be found under the 
head of Moriches. 

A house of worship was probably erected here a little after 
the middle of the last century, but the congregation did not 
become a distinct parish till after the dismission of Mr. Reeve 
in 1763. The first house was built at a point, on the south 
country-road, which had been called from the early settlement 
of the place, Beaver Dam. It stood in the midst of the pine 
forest, on a substratum of deep sand, with only 2 or 3 houses 
in sight, and almost without a vestige of cultivation in view. 
In 1831, this site was abandoned, and in the course of a few 
years, all marks of the foundation were so completely obliter- 
ated, that the writer found it difficult 3 years ago, after a dili- 
gent search, to determine the spot where this house of God, 
with which he was once familiar, had formerly stood. 

The present church was erected in the year above men- 
tioned, and dedicated Jan. 20lh, 1S32, about 2 miles east, at 
the head of Quantuck bay, surrounded by the same sands and 
forest, except a clearing on the south east, through which the 
littie " village" of Quogue and the boundary of the wide ocean 
may be seen. It is, however, decidedly an improved situation ; 
and mav " the glory of the latter house," vastly '* exceed that 
of the former." 

After the dismission of Mr. Reeve, this church was vacant 
for a period of more than 20 years, having only occasional 
supplies from the Presbytery, and other sources. In the course 
of this time, it is said that Mr. Daniel Youngs, afterwards the 
pastor of Upper x\quebogue, supplied them with preaching on 
the sabbath, for several years. 

The Rev. Thomas Russel was installed here Aug. 8th, 1787, 
but i only a short time. He was dismissed April 

h, 1789. 

The Rev. Herman Dagget, after leaving Southampton, was 
installed here Sept. 26lh, 1797, and was dismissed, for the 
want of support, Sept. 9th, 1801. 

The Rev. Nathaniel Reeve was ordained pastor of this 
church, Sept. 19th, 1801. He was a native of Mattituck, in 
Southold, and though not liberally educated, had been licensed 
to preach, Nov. 9th, 1791. Shortly afterwards, falling into a 
gloomy state of mind, he left the island, and for several years, 
buried himself from the knowledge of all his friends, in the 
retired parts of one of the southern states. Here he support- 
ed himself by the practice of medicine, which he had pre- 
viously studied ; til! aroused by the great religious excitement 



SECT. 5.] SOUTHAMPTON. 219 

that pervaded the south-western country, about the commence- 
ment of the present century, he returned to his native isle, 
with all the ardour of a new convert. Upon being settled in 
this place, he not only entered upon his pastoral duties with 
a naming zeal, but devoted much of his time to itinerating, 
exhorting his ministerial brethren to awake to duty, and warn- 
ing sinners " to flee from the wrath to come." Though there 
was much to commend in Mr. R.'s new career, there were 
some things that induced the most judicious ministers to sup- 
pose, that his zeal was not, in all cases, " according to know- 
ledge." His support failing, he was dismissed Nov. 6th, 1S07, 
and he removed to Deerfield, in West Jersey, where he la- 
boured about 10 years. In 1817, he returned to the island, 
and became a stated supply to his native congregation as pre- 
viously mentioned. The latter part of his life was marked 
with strong indications of a disordered mind, and he was not 
only laid aside from the ministry, but deprived, in a great de- 
gree, of the personal consolations of that gospel which he had 
so zealously proclaimed. But though he died under a cloud, 
it is confidently believed he awoke in a brighter world. 

After another vacancy of 6 years, the Rev. Abraham Luce 
was ordained here, Sept. 14th, 1813. He was dismissed 
April 18th, 1820, but continued to supply this congregation, 
half the time till 1825. 

Another vacancy of several years succeeded, which was 
occupied in part by occasional supplies. 

The Rev. Sylvester Woodbrldge, Jun., was ordained here, 
April 22, 183G, and was dismissed Oct. 31, 1837, and remov- 
ed to Hempstead. 

The Rev. Samuel Kellogg became a stated supply here for 
a year or two, and was succeeded in 1811, by the Rev. Si/1- 
ves'.er Woodbrldge, the father of the former pastor, who still 
continues to labour with this people. The present number of 
members is about 75. 

In 1833, a Methodist church was erected at Ketchabonock, 
about a mile west of Beaver Dam, where a regular society is 
formed. 

At Speoiin; on the western line of the town a Protestant 
Methodist society has been formed. They have hitherto wor- 
shipped in a school-house, but are now taking measures to 
erect a church. 

The following authentic anecdote forms an item of the his- 
tory of this congregation, and has a moral in it, that renders 
it worthy of preservation :— 



220 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

Speonk and Quogue are two distinct settlements about 5 miles apart, 
forming extreme parts of the parish of Westhampton. The house of God 
formerly stood in the midst of the pitch-pine forest, about half way between 
them. In these two different neighbourhoods once resided two worthy 
deacons of the same church, tenderly united in the bonds of Christian love, 
and zealously engaged in promoting the cause of their Lord and Master. 
The date alluded to was in " the times that tried men's souls." The result 
of the battle of Long Island had just reached these distant wilds, and the 
apprehension of British and Tory ravages, which were soon after realized 
throughout this once peaceful island, (now the first spot of virgin soil pol- 
luted by an invading army, and drenched in the blood of its own occu- 
pants,) spread dismay from Gravesend to Montauk and Oysterponds. 
Deacon T., the citizen of Quoguc, having by industry, economy, and the 
smiles of Heaven, laid aside against a rainy day a considerable amount of 
shining dust, in the form of Spanish dollars and British guineas, concluded 
that he must immediately " remove the deposits," to a place of greater 
safety. With this view, having secured them in a strong bag, which he 
placed in his ample coat pocket ; (you know they wore broad skirts in those 
days ;) he arose an hour before day, and striking out into the trackless wil- 
derness, in a northwest direction, he travelled full 3 miles, which brought 
him to a point about 2 miles north from the house of God, in which he 
loved to dwell. There selecting a solitary oak tree, with wide-spread 
branches in full leaf, in the midst of the pines, as a notable mark, which 
he could readily find again, he approached its root. There, with the alter- 
nate use of a stick and his hand, he soon formed an adequate excavation 
in the yielding sand. Then straightening himself up, and taking a look to 
the east and the west, the north and the south, to satisfy himself that no 
human eye witnessed the transaction, he stealthily drew the precious 
bag from his pocket, and suddenly dropped it into the hole. Having 
hastily replaced the sand, and scattered a few bushes and leaves on the 
spot, he turned and wended his way homeward. Here it is necessary to 
inform the reader that this wide forest was, and still is, one of the princi- 
pal dwelling places of the timorous deer: and one of the most successful 
modes of capturing them for a single huntsman, is to find a tree, against 
which they are in the habit of rubbing their horns, and which may be de- 
tected by their pawing at. the root. Having made this discovery, the hunts- 
man conceals himself in the crotch of another tree, a few rods distant, with 
gun in hand ; and when the hapless deer comes to his favourite resort, he 
falls an easy prey to the ingenuity of man. 

It so happened that Deacon J. of Speonk, impelled by a desire for a lit- 
tle fresh meat from the woods, had arisen that morning, a little earlier lhan 
his colleague, and taking a north- easterly direction, after travelling 3 or 4 
miles, he discovered a large "scraping-place" within good gun-shot of a 
large oak tree. Climbing up and concealing himself in its ample boughs, 
lie waited in breathless anxiety for the expected game. But the day began 
to dawn, and no deer appeared. At length, he heard the cracking of dry 
sticks in a south-easterly direction — the sure indication of approaching 
footsteps. Instead of a deer, however, he soon discovered, in the grey twi- 
light of the morning, the venerable figure of his worthy brother T. But 
as he approached unarmed, he could not divine the cause of his early visit 
to those distant recesses; and he concluded to wait for further develop- 
ments. Deacon T. advanced, with unwavering steps, to the very tree on 
which Deacon J. was perched, and went through all the operations which 
have been detailed, with his bag of money. 



SECT. 6.] BROOKHAVEN. 221 

Deacon X, after waiting till the sun had arisen without obtaining a 
shot, descended from the tree, and digging out the hidden treasure, safely 
conveyed it to his own house. A day or two afterwards, Deacon T. saun- 
tered into the forest to see that all things were safe ; when, to his utter 
astonishment, the hole was open and his treasure gone. Shortly after, 
Deacon J. learned that his brother T. was in a very depressed and wretched 
state of mind— on the very borders of despair. Waiting a few days to 
11 let patience have its perfect work," he arose one morning, and taking 
the bag of money in his pocket, left Speonk and hastened to Quogue. 
Arriving at Deacon T.'s, he found him lying on his bed, rolling from side 
to side, and groaning like one in the greatest distress. The following col- 
loquy ensued : — 

Dcac. J.—" Why, brother T., what is the matter ?" 

Deac. T. — " Oh, brother J., I am an undone man — undone for time and 
eternity." 

J. — « Why, brother T., what do you mean ? Where is the blessedness 
you have professed to be a partaker of, for so many years ?" 

T. — " Gone — forever gone ; I am ruined." 

J. — " Brother T., this looks to me like ' the sorrow of the world, which 
worketh death.' Tell me, is not this, after all, the result of some worldly 
trouble, that has prostrated your mind ?" 

T. — " It is true that I have recently met with some loss, in this world's 
store ; but it isn't that which distresses me : I have lost my Christian 
hope." 

At length Deacon J. drew the bag of money out of his pocket, at the 
sight of which Deacon T.'s countenance flashed with joy, and he earnestly 
inquired — 

" Brother J., where in the world did you find that ?" 

J. — " That is a matter of no consequence, brother T. I have come 
here this morning merely to give you a piece of advice. I observed, when 
you were about to deposit this treasure in the earth, you looked all around 
you, but you never once looked up. Now my advice is this : Whenever 
you have any important business to transact, even of a temporal nature, 
while it is well to look around, above all things, do not forget to look up." 

Summary. In this township there are 14 organised churches 
and 13 houses of worship, viz. : 4 Presbyterian— 3 Congre- 
gational— 4 Methodist — 1 Baptist— 1 Episcopalian— 1 Ro- 
man Catholic. Which give an average of 515 souls to each. 



Section 6.— BROOKHAVEN. 

Number of acres improved, - - - 35,141 
" " unimproved, - - 117,359 

Ratio of population to the acre, 1 to 20. 
This is the largest township on Long Island, being more 
than three times the area of King's County. It extends from 
the Sound to the ocean, and is bounded on the east by River- 
head and Southampton ; and on the west by Smithtown and 



222 AKWALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

Islip. As Islip makes a jut of several miles upon its south- 
western corner, and Brookhaven. in its turn, makes a similar 
advance upon Southampton, the township becomes an eio-ht- 
sided figure, whose area exceeds a square of 15 miles. 
Z* The first settlement was made in 1655, by a company of 
some 50 planters, who established themselves on the north 
side, at the place called Setauket, from the tribe of Indians, 
who formerly occupied the territory. 

From the great extent of the town, there are various set- 
tlements, distinguished by different names. These are Stony 
Brook, Setauket, Drowned Meadow, or Port Jefferson, Old 
Man's, or Mount Sinai, Miller's Place, Rocky Point, and Wad- 
ing River, on the north side ; and the last has been previ- 
ously described as lying partly in the town of Riverhead. 
On the south side, proceeding from the last, are Moriches, 
Pooseparuck, Fireplace, Bellport and Patchogue. And near 
the middle of the island, are in succession from the west, New 
tillage, Coram, Middletown and St. George's Manor, or 
Brookfield. 

In the most of these are found one or more religious socie- 
ties, of different denominations, making in all, more than 20 
places of worship within the limits of the town. 

Setauket, which was the original settlement, and till late 
years, the largest village in this large township, is situated on 
the north side, at the head of a harbour bearing the same 
name, whose entrance is a little east of Old Field Point. 

Although it is not ascertained at what period a church was 
organized here, it is known that earlv measures were adopted 
to establish public worship. Soon after the settlement was 
commenced, a public building, called a town-house was erect- 
ed, which, besides the civil purposes it subserved, appears to 
have been used as the place of religious meetings. 

Churches. 

On the 2nd of Feb. 1671, it was voted to erect a meeting- 
house 28 feet square, and the vote was soon after carried into 
execution. 

In 1710, a vote was passed to erect a new church ; but its 
execution was delayed several years, in consequence of a dif- 
ference of opinion, in regard to the site. In a town meeting, 
held Aug. 9th, 1714, it was agreed to decide the question 
by Lot ; and the decision was in favour of the old site. The 
house was finished in the following year, as far as was com- 
mon m those days, without ceiling or plaster. This building 



SECT. 6.] BROOKHAVEN. 223 

stood till 1811, with little alteration in its exterior or interior, 
bearing the marks of the bullets and cannon balls which 
passed through it, while it was occupied by the British in the 
revolutionary war. 

The present edifice was erected in 1811, and dedicated 
May 24th, 1812. 

In 1687, the town voted unanimously to purchase a lot of 
land, and erect thereon a parsonage-house, to remain such 
" in perpetuity ;" and its present aspect affords conclusive 
evidence, that hitherto the vote has been maintained. 

In the same year, it was voted to pay a schoolmaster .£30 
a year ; of which sum, £20 were to be paid by the scholars, 
and £10 by the town. 

In 1730, the first Episcopal church on Long Island, erected 
at the expense of that denomination, was built in this village. 
Four years afterwards, the town generously voted a piece of 
ground adjoining, for a cemetery. This building, several times 
repaired, still remains. 

In 1843, a small Methodist chapel was erected in the vici- 
nity of these churches. 

Ministers. 

In 1655, the Rev. Nathaniel Brewster, who had three sons 
settled here, came to visit them, and bee i me the minister of 
the place, and remained here till his death, Dec. 18th, 1690, 
at the age of 70 years. Mr. B. was a grandson of Elder Wil- 
liam Brewster, who filled so distinguished a place in the Ply- 
mouth colony — the pilgrims of the May-Flower. He was a 
graduate of the first class in Harvard University, and is sup- 
posed to have been the first native graduate in the new world. 
He is said to have been a good scholar and an able divine. 

Some years before his death, he was disabled, through in- 
firmity, for performing ministerial duties ; and the congrega- 
tion took measures to procure him aid. 

At a town meeting, held Oct. 3rd, 1685, they chose Mr. 
Samuel Eburne to be their minister. All that is known of 
this gentleman, is, that his name is recorded among the early 
settlers, and he had been employed by the town in some of 
their public concerns. 

This arrangement seems to have been of short duration ; 
for, soon after, it was voted " that the Rev. Dugald Simson 
be desired to continue their minister," which seems to imply 
that he was then with them. 

In 1691, Mr. Jonah Fordham, a son of the Rev. Joseph 



224 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PAKT 2, 

Forclham, of Southampton, came to this town, by invitation, 
and though, from feeble health, he declined a settlement, he 
continued to labour 4 or 5 years. Returning to Southamp- 
ton, he died July 17th, 1696, aged 63. 

The Rev. George Phillips was the second permanently set- 
tled pastor of this congregation. He was a graduate of Har- 
vard, in 1686, and had preached at Jamaica some 3 or 4 
years before he came here in 1697. He preached some years 
without ordination, which he did not receive till the year 1702, 
about which time this town voted him 100 acres of land, in fee , 
and subsequently 200 acres more, on condition of his serving 
them during his life. He died June 17th, 1739, aged 75, and 
is buried at Setauket. He was esteemed a good man, but 
many anecdotes are related of him, that indicate a vein of fa- 
cetiousness not favorable to the dignity of the sacred profes- 
sion. 

The Rev. David Youngs, the third pastor, was the grandson 
of the first minister of Southold. He graduated at Yale, in 
1741, and settled here in 1745. His ministry was short, for 
he died in 1751 or 1752. He is said to have been a man of 
more than ordinary powers of mind. 

The Rev. Benjamin Talmadge, the fourth pastor, was a 
graduate of Yale in 1747 — ordained here, Oct. 23d, 1754 — 
dismissed June 15th, 1785, and died Feb. 5th, 1786, aged 61 
years. He was a fine scholar, and an able divine. His son, 
Col. Benjamin Tallmadge, of revolutionary memory, and late 
of Litchfield, Ct., was born in the old parsonage-house still 
remaining. 

The Rev. Noah Wetmore, the fifth pastor, was a graduate 
of Yale, and first settled at Bethel, Ct. He was installed here 
April 17th, 1786, and died March 9th, 1796, at the age of 
65 years. 

The Rev. Zechariah Green, the sixth and still surviving 
pastor, was born at Stafford, Conn., Jan. 11th, 1760, graduat- 
ed at Dartmouth, 1781, licensed in 1785, and ordained at Cut- 
chogue, in Southold. June 28th, 1787 He was installed here 
Sept. 27th, 1797. Mr. Green was an early volunteer in the 
struggle of the revolution. He was in the army, and actively 
engaged in rearing the fortifications at Dorchester heights, in 
the battle of White Plains, and in several other skirmishes, in 
one of which he received a severe wound in the shoulder, 
which was probably the cause of changing his course of life. 
Disabled for warfare, he immediately returned to a course of 
study, which he had relinquished at his country's call, and 



SECT. 6.] BKOOKHAVEA. 225 

which eventually led him to the sacred ministry. It is a singular 
coincidence, not unworthy of recognition, that this very spot 
of ground, on which Mr. G. has so long fought with " spiritual 
weapons," was one of the scenes in which he once fought 
with " carnal weapons." In 1777, he was one of the party, 
under Col. Parsons, which crossed over to Setauket, with the 
view of capturing a company of British soldiers and Tories, 
who had taken possession of, and barricadoed the Presbyterian 
church, in this place, the very building in which Mr. G. af- 
terwards preached the gospel during 34 years, and on which 
ground he is still occasionally preaching at the advanced age 
of 85 years. 

Mr. Green having become infirm, through age, though he 
retains much of his natural vivacity, has for some years past, 
been aided by temporary assistants. The Rev. Ezra^King, 
for a while, devoted half his time to this congregation* And 
afterwards, Mr. John Gile was engaged as an assistant, who 
was regularly ordained as collegiate pastor in Nov. 1R43. It 
does not appear that this place has ever been distinguished by 
any great and extensive outpourings of the Spirit. The church 
has never been large, and now consists of 81 members. 

Jilp is cop a I Min iste. rs . 

An organization, under the forms of the Episcopal Church, 
was made here in 1725, under the Rev. Mr. Standard, who 
continued only a year or two. 

In 1729, the Rev. Alexander Campbell came from England, 
and during his continuance, the church edifice previously 
mentioned, was erected. He left in 1732, and was succeeded, 

In 1733, by the Rev. Isaac Brown. He was a graduate of 
Yale, in 1729, and is said to have been a man of talents and 
education. He removed to New- Jersey in 1747. 

Shortly after, he was succeeded by the Rev. James Lyon, 
an Irishman by birth, who had been sent over to this country 
as a missionary. He continued here to the close of his life, in 
1786, but being a man of violent temper, which seriously im- 
paired his usefulness, he relinquished his ministerial functions 
some years before his death. 

During almost 30 years, the regular services in this church 
were suspended, and only occasional supplies, by different in- 
dividuals, were enjoyed ; among whom arc mentioned the 
names of the Rev. Thomas Fowler, Rev. John J. Sands, and 
Rev. Mr. Burgess. 

In 1814, the Rev. Charles Smbury was placed here as a 
10* 



226 ANNALS OP THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

missionary, and, for a number of years, divided his labours 
between this church and that of Islip. He died suddenly, 
about Christmas, 1844, having, through infirmity, discontinued 
his regular labours, for some years preceding, during which 
time, several different supplies were employed whose names 
have not been ascertained. 

The Rev. F. M. Noll is the present rector. 

Stony Brook, called by the Indians Wopowog, is a small 
settlement, about three miles southwest of Setauket, on the 
western boundary of the town. It lies on a harbour of the 
same name, which is one of the best on the Sound. Its 
entrance is in the angle formed by the western shore of Crane 
Neck, which is one of the most conspicuous points on the 
northern shore of Long Island. This village is a place of 
considerable ship-building and coasting trade, and is one of the 
few places whose inhabitants have been wise enough not to 
be ashamed of its early name. The harbour extends two or 
three miles inland, to a point bearing the name " head of the 
harbour," which is in Smithtown. In former days, the peo- 
ple living here formed a part of the neighbouring congrega- 
tions. 

In 1817, a church was erected here by the co-operation 
of several denominations, but it is principally occupied by one 
of the sections of the Methodist church. 

Port Jefferson, formerly Drowned Meadow, and anciently 
bearing a more elegant name than either, Sowassett, of 
aboriginal application, is a small settlement, 3 miles east of 
Setauket, having a commodious harbour whose entrance is the 
same with that of Setauket. It has, of late years, become a 
place of considerable ship-building and navigation. The in- 
crease of population and improvement in buildings have been 
great. The village is encompassed with hills. 

In 1836, a Methodist Episcopal church was erected here, 
which was the first, and is the only house of worship in tins 
village. 

Old Man's, (now Mount Sinai) of which the Indian name 
was Nonowantuck, is a parish 3 miles east of that last men- 
tioned, situated in a very rough region, as its new name suf- 
ficiently indicates. 

It is said that a house of worship was erected here in the 
early part of the last century, which was rebuilt in 1805. 
The first minister settled here was the Rev. Ezra Reeve, who 
was ordained Oct. 10th, 1759, by the Suffolk Presbytery. At 
the conclusion of the public solemnities, it was found that 



SECT. 6.] BROOKHAVEN. 227 

certain members of the first Presbyterian church and society 
of Brookhaven " who proposed to submit themselves to Mr, 
Reeve as their pastor, had not been publicly incorporated in 
due form, as they ought to have been." A Committee of the 
Presbytery was therefore appointed to constitute them into a 
distinct church. This appears to have been delayed for some 
time, through the unwillingness of the church at Setauket to 
dismiss them. But the difficulty being at length removed, 
the church was regularly constituted Sept. 3rd, 1760, and 
taken under the care of the Presbytery. This was evidently 
the first church that was ever organized at the Old Man's, and 
it was a regular Presbyterian church. 

Mr. Reeve did not continue long in this relation. He left 
his people without consulting the Presbytery, for which he was 
censured, Nov. 30th 1762, and ordered to return to them. Pie 
was, however, dismissed, Oct. 25th, 1763 ; and the occasional 
appointment of supplies is the only additional evidence of the 
continued existence of this church. Whether it became ex- 
tinct by the death and removal of its members, or was drawn 
away to another connexion, it is impossible to determine. 

The next documentary evidence we have in the ecclesias- 
tical annals of this parish is, that on the 17th of May, 1792, 
the Long Island Convention received into its connexion the 
Congregational church at the Old Man's, organized by the 
Rev. Noah Hallock, with nine members, Dec 23d, 1789 as 
the 1st Congregational church of Brookhaven. 

Of this church Mr. Hallock became the pastor. He was a 
native of Rocky Point, a small settlement 5 miles east of the 
church, where he resided till his death, Oct. 23rd, 1818. 
During his ministry 100 members were added, principally in 
three distinct revivals of religion. In Dec. 3 820, the Rev, 
Noah H. Gillei was ordained pastor of this church. He re- 
mained in connexion with this church and the Convention, 
till May 1831, when he united with the Presbytery, and soon 
after left the island. 

Since that time this parish has had several stated supplies, 
one of whom, the Rev. Ebcnezer Platf, spent several years in 
their service. 

The Rev. Prince Hawes is now labouring in this congrega- 
tion. 

Miller's Place, is a small neat village, 2 miles east of Old 
Man's, on a beautiful tract of table land in full view of the 
Sound. The inhabitants generally belong to the adjacent 



228 AN1VALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART. 2, 

congregations, and have no distinct ecclesiastical organiza- 
tion. 

In 1834, an Academy was erected here, which has been re- 
spectably sustained at home and from abroad. 

Rocky Point, is another small settlement, 3 miles east of 
Miller's Place, but does not constitute a distinct parish. It ia 
to be distinguished from another of the same name in Southold. 

Wading Rive?- was settled originally by a vote of the town 
of Brookhaven, Nov. 17th, 1671, by which appropriation was 
made for the accommodation of 8 families, who were to take 
up their residence there. .But as the church, and about half 
of the village are in the town of Riverhead, the particulars of 
its ecclesiastical history have been given there. 

Moriches. Proceeding directly across the island to the 
south-east corner of this town, we find a pleasant little village 
still bearing this original Indian name. It has been previously 
stated that this formerly constituted the centre of a parish 
that extended from Quogue to Fireplace. 

Mr. Nehemiah Greenman, a graduate of Yale, was licensed 
by the Suffolk Presbytery, Oct. 20, 1748, and on application 
from the people, he was appointed to preach at Moriches. 
His health being feeble, and his labours not proving accept- 
able to the congregation, he was released from the appointment 
Nov. 14th, 1840. It is probable that during this time there 
might have been preaching places at Westhampton and Fire- 
place ; but there is evidence that Mr. Greenman resided here, 
and this village was regarded as the centre of the parish. 
Shortly after his release from this place, he left the island, 
and was subsequently settled within the bounds of the Phila- 
delphia Presbytery, where he probably ended his da}^s. 

The next account we have of this congregation is presented 
in the following extract from the records of the Suffolk Pres- 
bytery under date of Oct. 23rd, 1754 : — 

" Took into consideration the case of Mr. Abner Reeve, 
originally of Southold, who, though formerly a licensed 
preacher, had been for a considerable time laid aside on ac- 
count of intemperance and excessive drinking. He, having 
hopefully experienced a saving change, and being very desir- 
ous of preaching the gospel to others, the power of which he 
hoped he had experienced in his own soul, upon proper peni- 
tential reflections upon himself, and a visible reformation, was 
countenanced in his desires, and encouraged to preach by the 
ministers in Southold, and by them directed to attend this 
our session for the approbation and advice of the Presbytery. 



SECT. 6.] BKOOKHAVEN. 229 

" Application being made to us by the said Mr. Reeve, we, 
upon suitable inquiries made into his case, and hopeful evi- 
dences discovered of the reality of his change, and sincerity 
of his desires to preach the gospel, approved of his preaching. 
And whereas, he had been preaching for some time at Mo- 
riches and Ketchabonock, upon application made to us by the 
people of those parishes for his continuance? the Presbytery 
advised him to continue preaching among them till further 
orders might be given." 

It appears from a subsequent record, that at the request of 
the people the Presbytery met at ftloriches, Nov. 6th, 1755, 
organized a church and ordained the Rev. Abner Reeve as 
pastor. From this time till the dismission of Mr. Reeve, there 
is evidence that both Westhampton and Fireplace were parts 
of this congregation. 

At a meeting of the Presbytery, Oct. 27th, 1761, the east- 
ern part of the congregation made a complaint against Mr. 
Reeve, of hi? " having fallen foully into the awful sin of* 
drunkenness, and requested that they might be dismissed from 
his charge, and set off as a separate parish." 

4; Mr. Reeve freely and fully acknowledged the fact, (as be- 
fore he had done to his congregations severally,) and also pro- 
posed to make satisfaction to the several churches and congre- 
gations within the Presbytery, and further if thought proper — 
as far as a severe reflection and penitential confession will 
answer that end. 

" His confession was reduced to writing, and ordered to he 
publicly read in all the churches and congregations under the 
care of the Presbytery /" And it was further ordered '* in 
case he be left to fall again into the sin complained of, that 
he be immediately ipso facto, suspended from the ministry.'' 
The request of the people of Ketchabonock was postponed, 
as the other part of the parish had not been consulted. 

The complaint against Mr. Reeve was subsequently re- 
newed, but under circumstances which led the Presbytery to 
conclude that he had not incurred the contingent sentence of 
suspension. His pastoral relation was, however, dissolved in 
1763. A year or two after he removed to Blooming Grove, 
Orange county, and transferred his relation to the Presbytery 
of New York — whose jurisdiction he declined in 1769, and 
"declared himself an independent." In 1770, he removed to 
Brattleborough, Vt., where he laboured till within a short 
period of his death, which took place in 1795, at the advanced 
age of 85 years. It is understood, that for a number of years 



230 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

preceding his death, he obtained the victory over his besetting 
sin, and lived and died, in the judgment of charity, a good 
man. 

It is an ungrateful task to record such instances of ministe- 
rial defection and degradation, but historical truth demands it, 
and the example of holy writ warrants the recital as " ensam- 
ples," of which there is need, even in this advanced period of 
the temperance reformation, to warn ministers and others of 
their danger from that mighty destroyer, which has slain more 
than plague, pestilence or famine. 

Shortly after the dismission of Mr. Reeve, Westhampton 
seems to have become a distinct congregation, and Moriches 
appears in connexion with Fireplace in its ecclesiastical rela- 
tions. In process of time, however, the Presbyterian interest 
in this village declined, and the church became extinct. 

Although a church was organized here, and a minister set- 

lied in 1753, it is not ascertained that any house of worship 

was erected before the commencement of the present century. 

In 1809, a house of worship was erected which was 

occupied by all denominations. 

On the 25th of Dec. 1817, a Congregational church was 
organized here by the Rev. Moses Sweezy, which was received 
by the Long Island Convention in May following. It was 
served principally by supplies from that body till in 1825, Mr. 
John Icerson, an Englishman, was ordained as pastor. He 
was dismissed in June 1830. 

On the 14th of November, 1831, the 2nd Presbytery of 
Long Island organized a church here which was taken under 
their care. This, at the time, was regarded as an act of intru- 
sion upon the interests of Congregationalism ; but the preced- 
ing history of this place, which will be new even to many 
residing in the vicinity shows most conclusively that this 
ground was originally Presbyterian, and that by this act, the 
Presbytery merely re-occupied territory which 'they formerly 
possessed. 

The Rev. Alfred Ketcham, under whose labours this little 
church consisting of 15 members was gathered, continued to 
supply them till 1833. 

The Rev . Christopher Youngs of the Association succeeded 
a year or two, and preached to both congregations, which 
assembled in the same house. 

The Rev. Mr. Moase followed as a stated supply for about 
2 years. 

In 1838 Mr. Thomas Owen commenced labouring in the 



6ECT. 6. J BROOKHAVEN. 231 

Presbyterian church here, and at Brookfield. In November 
of that year he was ordained by the Presbytery, and although 
not installed, he continues to supply this church half the time. 
The present number of members in the Presbyterian church is 
49; in the Congregational, 11. 

In 1839 a new house of worship was erected, which is oc- 
cupied, on alternate sabbaths, by the Congregational and 
Presbyterian churches. 

In the same year a Methodist Episcopal Church was 
erected. 

In 1840 the Protestant Methodists erected a house of wor- 
ship. 



As some of the inhabitants of this village have expressed 
doubts of the correctness of some facts previously stated, the 
following extracts from the records of the Suffolk Presbytery 
are annexed, which will satisfy any candid mind : — 

" Oct. 20th, 1748. Directed Mr. Greenman to preach at 
Moriches, as a Probationer, till further orders. 

"Nov. 14th, 1749. Mr. Nathaniel Woodhull, Richard 
Woodhull, William Smith, John Brewster, and Barnabas Ry- 
der, appeared before the Presbytery in behalf of the people of 
Mastick and the Fireplace, &c. 

In the result, the Presbytery released Mr. Greenman 
from his appointment at Moriches. It is then added, 

" The people of Mastick, the Fireplace and the Eastern 
people in concert with them, manifested their desires, that the 
Presbytery would afford them relief under their present desti- 
tute circumstances : the Presbytery agreed to use their en- 
deavours to that purpose. 

" Oct. 23d, 1754. Upon application made to us by the Pa- 
rishes of Moriches and Ketchabonock, we advised him (Mr. 
Reeve) to continue preaching among them. 

" June 4th, 1755. The Parishes of Moriches and Ketch- 
abonock, by their Committee (Mr. John Brewster, and John 
Jessup,) laid before the Presbytery their desires respecting the 
ordination of Mr. Reeve." 

This application being renewed at the next meeting, in 
Sept., the Presbytery agreed to meet at Moriches, Nov. 4th, 
for that purpose, at which time, and place, after attending to 
the examination of Mr. Reeve, and resolving to proceed to 
the ordination, we have the following record : — 

" Nov. 6th, 1755. Upon receiving proper testimonials from 



232 ANNALS Of* THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

sundry persons of their regular standing in the churches of 
Christ elsewhere, proceeded to their incorporation and visible 
embodying in church membership, in this place, to walk in the 
faith and fellowship of the gospel one with another, and as be- 
coming members of a Presbyterial church under our care. 

" Nextly proceeded to the ordination of Mr. Reeve. Mr. 
Prime presided. Mr. Brown began with prayer. Mr. Troop 
preached from 1 Cor. ix. 27. Mr. Park made the prayer at 
the imposition of hands. Mr. Talimadge gave the right hand 
of fellowship. Mr. Prime gave the charge and Mr. Buel gave 
an exhortation to minister and people, and Mr. Dagget made 
the concluding prayer. 

"Oct. 27 th, 1761. A number of people belonging to the 
eastern part of Mr. Reeve's parish exhibited to the Presbytery 
a letter of complaint, &c, and request that they may be dis- 
charged from his pastoral care, and have the liberty of look- 
ing out for, and procuring a minister among themselves, in 
distinction from the western part of the parish, with which 
they are at present united." 

After acting on the complaint, we find this record : — 

" With regard to the request, [to become a distinct society] 
the Presbytery judgeth that in order thereto, the people of the 
parish of Southaven, to which they stand related, ought first 
to be informed of their proposal and request," and " the Pres- 
bytery express a willingness to gratify the petitioners in their 
request, in case it may appear upon due hearing and conside- 
ration, that the granting thereof may be conducive to the 
interests of religion among them." 

This request from Ketchabonock was renewed Oct. 2Sth, 
1762, and in the subsequent year Mr. Reeve was dismissed. 
About this time, Southaven is spoken of as a distinct parish, 
and the Presbytery met there for the first time March 23rd, 
1763. 

Poosepatuck, lies on a neck of land, a little to the south- 
west of Moriches. Here is a little church composed of the 
remnants of the Aborigines, mingled, as in other parts of the 
island, with the African race. They have a small house of 
worship, and the church is said to have been organized, many 
years ago, by the Rev. Peter John. It was received into 
connexion with the L. I. Convention, in 1812. It was for- 
merly quite respectable in point of numbers, but has been 
reduced to 20 members by schisms produced by the introduc- 
tion of new sentiments and practices. In this work, a female 
preacher, a few years ago, had a principal hand. 



SECT. 6.] BROOKHAVEN. 233 

A religious anniversary, under the name of " The June 
Meeting" which has been previously mentioned, is a great 
day for the remains of this interesting people throughout the 
island. It is attended upon devoutly by them ; but is an oc- 
casion of much Sabbath profanation, and indecorum of con- 
duct to multitudes of young people, who from motives of 
curiosity, or baser principles, attend from a distance of 20 or 
30 miles around. Its present moral influence on the surround- 
ing country is, at least questionable. 

Fireplace or Southaven, is about 8 miles west of Moriches. 
Shortly after the dismission of Mr. Reeve, Mr. David Rose, 
a graduate of Yale, in 1760, commenced preaching "at Mo- 
riches, Manor of St. George, Southport, and Winthrop's Pat- 
ent." He received a call, and was ordained by the Presbytery 
Dec. 4th, 1765. He acted as a physician as well as a pastor, 
and continued here till his death. Two years after his ordi- 
nation, a church was organized at Middle Island, and became 
a part of his charge. He died, as stated in the records of the 
Synod Jan. 1st, 1799. 

The Rev. Robert H. Chapman received a call to this 
congregation, in connection with Middle Island, which he de- 
clined, after preaching with them a few months in the year 
18C0-1. 

The Rev. Herman Daggett was installed Oct. 20th, 1801. 
He resided at Middle Island ; and was dismissed April 17th, 
1807. 

The Rev. Ezra King was ordained pastor of these united 
congregations, May 11th, 1814, having previously supplied 
them for a considerable time. He was dismissed April 16th, 
1809, and since that time, this congregation has been united 
with Bellport, and supplied by the Rev. Abijah Tomlinson^ 
who was ordained Sept. 9th, 1840, by the Presbytery, but not 
installed. 

It is not known at what date a house of worship was first 
erected at Fireplace. An aged man, still living, says he re- 
collects when there was none there, and when the first church 
was built. It was probably not far from the time of Mr. 
Rose's settlement. The present church was erected in 1728. 

Fire Place Neck, is a small neighbourhood, a little west of 
the church last mentioned. There is a small Congregational 
church, of 11 members, that meet in a building, which has 
been fitted up for the purpose of worship. The Rev. Na- 
thaniel Hawkins occasionally preached here ; but the congre- 
gation is very small. 



234 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

Bellport is a neat little village of modern origin, situated 
on Occombomock Neck, about 3 miles west of Fireplace. It 
lies on the south country road, in full view of the Great Bay, 
and is a place of considerable coasting trade. Its only public 
building is an Academy which is also occupied as a place of 
worship. The Rev. Abijah Tomlinson, acts in the double 
capacity of Principal of the Academy, and minister of the 
church, which is Congregational or Independent. The pre- 
sent number of members is 37. 

Patchoguc, is the largest village in Brookhaven, situated on 
the south road, in the south-west corner of the town. It con- 
tains 3 churches, nearly 100 dwelling houses, and its popula- 
tion is estimated at 5 (JO souls. It is a place of very conside- 
rable water-power, which is improved for various mechanical 
and manufacturing appliances, [see page 25.) The citizens 
are an active, enterprising people, and the whole village pre- 
sents an aspect of industry and thrift. 

A congregational church was organized here Jan. 14 th, 
1793, by the Rev. Noah Hallock, consisting of 8 members. 
In May following, it was taken under the care of the L. I. 
Convention, as " the 2nd Cong. Church of Brookhaven." 
Mr. Hallock, though connected with another charge, appears 
to have exercised a supervision over this infant congregation, 
till his death. His successor at Old Man's, the Rev. Noah 
H. Gillet, divided his labours with this church from 1822 to 
1833. After a vacancy of one year, the following persons 
were successively employed, viz : — 

The Rev Smith P. Gammage, from 1834 to 1835; the Rev. 
Mr. Moase, to 1836 ; the Rev. Parshall Terry, to 1837 ; and 
the Rev. Mr. Baty to 1838. In June, 1839, the Rev. B. Mat- 
thias, commenced his labours with this people, and continued 
till 1S43, when in consequence of some change of sentiment, 
and a supposed intention of setting up a new sect, he was in- 
duced to resign his charge. 

About this time Mr. Gammage was again employed for 8 
months ; but before his time expired, he became a disciple " of 
Miller," and after distracting the church with this senseless 
"midnight-cry," he withdrew, carrying with him 58 members. 
These organized themselves into a new society, and after 
electing 7 deacons, and making other preparation for the 
expected end, they waited, and waited in vain, till the 23d of 
April, and the 24th of October, and indeed, the entire year 
1814, had passed away, and all things remained as they were. 
Mr. Gammage has recently come out and made a public con- 



SECT. G.] BROOKHAVEN. 235 

fession of his error, and some of his associates have ap- 
parently abandoned the scheme, but the deleterious influence 
of these unscriptural sentiments is manifest, in the diminution 
of vital piety, and the promotion of a cavilling and sceptical 
disposition in the whole community, will not be effaced from 
the present generation. This is one of a very few places on 
the island where this delusion has been embraced by any con- 
siderable number. And though, in itself, it is too contempti- 
ble, to merit a serious notice, historical truth requires, that it 
should not be passed over in utter silence. It may not be out 
of place to add, that as many of the advocates of this scheme 
were regarded as honest in their delusion, before the predicted 
day arrived, they have now a fair opportunity of proving their 
claim to this charitable regard, by a frank and full confession 
of their errors. Can any man who has been led away by 
such a delusion be considered honest, who refuses to acknow- 
ledge his error, or even keeps his mouth closed, when the 
providence of God has stamped his doctrine as a lie ? 

Since May, 1844, the Rev. J. H. Thomas, of the Brooklyn 
Presbytery has been a stated supply in this congregation. 

At several different periods, this church has been favoured 
with special seasons of refreshing. In 1817 about 100 were 
added to its communion, as also under Mr. Gillet's ministry. 
The whole number of members since its organization is 438, 
and there are now (April 30th, 1845,) 204 in communion. 
About 115 families compose the congregation. 

The first house of worship here, was erected in 1794, and 
rebuilt in 1820. In its erection, Congregationalists, Metho- 
dists, Presbyterians and Baptists united with the understand- 
ing, that each denomination should occupy it one fourth of 
the time. In 1831, the last two denominations "having run 
down," and the Methodists being in want of a house for 
a greater proportion of the time, the Congregationalists pur- 
chased their right, and have since occupied the building as 
their own. 

The Methodist Epis. Church was erected about the year 
1833. It is supposed to be in a prosperous state. Though 
somewhat entrenched upon by the cry of false prophets, it did 
not lose as many members as the Congregational church. 

A Protestant Episcopal church was erected here in 1843, 
but its condition has not been ascertained. 

On a neck of land southwest of Patchogue, of which the 
Indian name was Manowtasquolt, is the village of Blue Point, 
whose waters were formerly famous for their delicious oysters, 



236 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

of immense size. But they are now greatly diminished in 
quantity if not in quality. There is no ecclesiastical organi- 
zation here distinct from the adjoining village. 

New Village (or West Middle Island,) about 8 miles north 
of Patchogue, on the middle road, is a considerable settle- 
ment, continuous for more than a mile, which bears the above 
name. This has been occupied, for many years, as a preach- 
ing station by various denominations. The Methodists have a 
class here. 

A house of worship called '.' Union Meeting-house," was 
erected in 1812. 

A church was organized here, April 2d, 1S15, by the Rev. 
Jacob Corwin, under the style of " the third Congregational 
Church of Brookhaven," which was taken under the care of 
the L. I. Convention, May 15th, 1816. Mr. Corwin continu- 
ed to supply it for a number of years. In May, 1825, Mr. 
Nathaniel Hawkins was ordained its pastor. Its late history 
has not been ascertained, except that it now consists of 55 
members. 

Coram. About three miles east, on the middle road, is an 
ancient settlement of this name, in the midst of the deepest 
sand of this sandy island. In its vicinity are some of the 
highest hills in this county. 

In 1747, a Baptist meeting house was erected here, and, it 
is believed that a church was early organized, but for a long 
series of years, it seldom enjoyed gospel ordinances. This is 
supposed to have been the first, and for a long time, the only 
church of that denomination in the county. It doubtless 
became extinct, as the church now existing is mentioned 
on the records of the Baptist Association of New York, as 
having been organized in 1809. 

Middletown, (formerly Middle Island.) This parish is situ- 
ated two miles east of Coram. Its name is well adapted to 
express its locality, being about the centre of the island, both 
as to length and breadth. This whole region is generally 
light and sandy, much of it occupied by forests, and the popu- 
lation is dispersed. 

A church edifice was erected here in 1766, and in Nov. 
1767, the Presbytery appointed a committee to organize a 
church which afterwards united with that of Fireplace, or 
Southaven, in the support of the gospel. This union continu- 
ed for the space of 73 years, during which time its history is 
identified with that congregation, which has been already 
noticed. 



SECT. 6.] BROOKHAVEff. 237 

The Presbyterian church was rebuilt in 1S37. 

The Rev. Ezra King having resigned the pastoral charge 
of these congregations in 1839, continued as a stated supply- 
to this parish two or three years, when from the failure of his 
health, he was obliged to relinquish his labours. 

On the 12th of June, 1844, the Rev. James S. Evans was 
ordained pastor of this church. 

A Methodist church was erected here in 1840. 

St. George's Manor— Brookfield — Punk's Hole. This place 
has been previously mentioned as a stopping place on the L. I. 
rail road. It is near the eastern line of the town, nine miles 
from Riverhead. The Peconick river runs a little north of 
the place, and though the face of the country is here 46 feet 
above tide-water, it abounds with swamps and streams of 
water. About two miles west is an extensive swamp, bearing 
the Indian name of Wampmissick, which the writer would re- 
commend as the name of this village ; as he would Yapuank, 
instead of Millville, still further west. 

The name "Brookfield" is connected with the religious 
history of the place, which will be found not the least inter- 
esting part of the island. 

Towards the close of the last century there was a collec- 
tion of families in this vicinity, whose principal employ ment 
was to convert the adjacent forests into cordwood and char- 
coal. The people laboured hard through the week, and on the 
Sabbath, being six or eight miles distant from any church, and 
the roads through deep sand, they felt little inclination to try 
to reach the sound of the gospel. There was a fair prospect, 
therefore, that they and their children were to grow up in a 
state of at least semi-paganism. 

About this time, it pleased God by his grace to call one of 
their number into his kingdom. He was a man of very small 
powers of mind, but of peculiar humility of heart, and simpli- 
city of character. If ever a christian in modern days merit- 
ed the appellation of a " child," it was Jonathan Robinson. 
Deeply sensible of his own weakness, yet having tasted that 
" the Lord is gracious," he longed to have his neighbours be- 
come "partakers of the like precious faith." With much 
diffidence and trembling, though with a sincere desire to do 
them good, he invited them to come together at his house, 
(which was then the largest in the place,) on the Sabbath 
and they accepted his invitation. He prayed and sang, read 
the scriptures, and a sermon ; and from that blessed hour, his 
house became the Bethel of the place. 



23S ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

But Mr. Robinson was not only of a humble and docile 
disposition-— he was aJso the friend of order. And fearing 
that the course which he had been constrained, by the force 
of circumstances, to enter upon, might be regarded as disor- 
derly, he early sought an opportunity to lay the whole matter 
before the Presbytery of Suffolk, and ask their advice. After 
examining the subject in all its bearings, (Oct. 16th, 1783,) 
those fathers and brethren felt constrained to regard it as a 
notable indication of providence, and they expressed their ap- 
probation of the course Mr. R. had pursued, and recognised 
him as a sort of catechist, to lead the devotions of that retired 
and isolated people ; and occasionally, besides reading well- 
selected sermons, to give them a word of exhortation. 

These labours seemed to meet with the divine approbation ; 
souls were hopefully converted to God ; and at length a little 
church was organized in the house of Obededom, which was 
taken under the care of the L. I. Presbytery, April 19th, 1796, 
bearing the name of Brookfield. 

The Presbytery were induced to regard this as a peculiar 
case, which could never be made a precedent for lowering the 
standard of the gospel ministry ; and, therefore, after some 
trials, and an examination adapted to the case, they regularly 
licensed Mr. R. to preach the gospel, April 20th, 1796. 

After some years, on an application from Mr. R. and his 
people, founded on the exigences arising from their peculiar 
circumstances, the Presbytery agreed to ordain him to the 
work of the ministry, with a special view to that place, though 
not to instal him as the pastor. 

Accordingly, on the 26th of November, 1807, the Presby- 
tery met in Brookfield Meeting House — Father Robinson s own 
house; — one of the fathers of the Presbytery preached the 
sermon from Cant. ii. 15, and the ordination was duly con- 
summated. Although the writer was present on this interest- 
ing occasion, he does not recollect that the preacher, who was 
a man of some dry wit, made any special application of his 
text to the case in hand, but he could not help thinking, as 
most of his readers will, that he selected rather a singular 
theme for an ordination sermon. 

Father Robinson continued to labour not only with this 
people, but elsewhere, as long as his bodiiy vigour endured ; 
reared up a family, (of which one son is a regularly educated 
minister of the gospel, and a good instructer ;) and though he 
still lives, at a very advanced age, he is so infirm both in body 
and mind that he is completely laid aside. But he still loves 



SECT. 6.] BROOKHAVEN. 239 

to talk of the precious Saviour, and ascribe all his hopes to his 
abounding grace. The subject of religion is all that his me- 
mory retains. 

The remark that Father Robinson was a man of small natu- 
ral abilities, demands some qualification. While there was a 
child-like simplicity about him that seemed to indicate feeble- 
ness of intellect, there was an originality and shrewdness, 
that oftentimes rendered his performances deeply interesting 
and impressive. This remark cannot be better illustrated 
than by giving some notes of one of the last sermons which 
he delivered a few years ago, when suddenly invited to preach 
for a brother, whom he called on, as he passed through his 
congregation. This brother noted down some of his " bright 
thoughts" after hearing the discourse. His text was : 

1 Cor. xv. 47, 48. The first man is of the earth, earthy ; 
the second man is the Lord from Heaven. 

As is the earthy, such are they that are earthy ; and as is 
the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly. 

" 1. The text tells us of two men — two Adams. A short 
history of each, Adam — Christ. 

" II. The text tells us of their children, and they are just 
like their respective progenitors. 

" The first Adam's children are like him. State some par- 
ticulars. 1. They are fond of dress. Adam and Eve were 
placed in the garden, both stark naked, and were not a grain 
ashamed. But the moment they sinned, they began to look 
about for something to cover them, and made a dress of fig- 
leaves. — Just so their children do. Their hearts are set upon 
dress. Pride acted out in this way more than any other, and 
yet to be proud of dress is to be proud of what was occasioned 
by shame. 

i; 2. They are like their parents in making excuses. Adam 
said, it wasn't me ; it was Eve. Eve said, it wasn't me ; it 
was the serpent. Just so their children. Adam begat a son 
in his own likeness, and all his descendants are just like him. 
Ask any little boy, Are you bad 1 and he says, No, I'm good. 

*' 3. They try to conceal themselves from God. Adam 
and Eve hid themselves among the trees. Just so their pos- 
terity try to hide from God. 

'• But Christ's children are like him. 

" 1. He was meek and lowly : so are they. 

" 2. He loved to please his father — so do they. 

" 3. He loved to pray ; so his people. 

" 4. He went about doing good — so do they." 



240 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

Here he introduced his favourite theme, the scene of Geth- 
semane and Calvary, and commenting on Heb. x. 14, de- 
scribed how " all-conquering love" makes them children ; and 
they, catching the spirit of their divine Saviour, are trans- 
formed into his image. 

The whole was closed with a warm exhortation founded 
on this remark : " The time is coming when an interest in 
Christ will be felt to be of more value than anything and 
everything else." 

A small but commodious house of worship was erected at 
Brookfield in 1839. Present number of members is about 25 ; 
and the church is not in a thriving condition. They have 
only occasional preaching. 

Recapitulation. 

In this large township there are 22 organized churches, 
viz. : 5 Presbyterian — 6 Congregational — 6 Epis. Methodist — 
2 Protestant Methodist — 2 Episcopal and 1 Baptist ; which 
give an average of 339 souls to each. 

Section 7.— SMITHTOWN. 

Number of acres improved, - - - - 10,937 
« " unimproved, - - - 27,063 

Ratio of population to the acre, 1 to 20. 

This town is bounded on the north by the Sound, on the 
east by Brookhaven, on the south by Islip, and on the west by 
Huntington. 

The greater part of this territory was given by Wyandanch, 
the Sagamore of Montauk and Grand Sachem of the Island, 
under date of July 14th, 1659, to Lyon Gardiner, as a token 
of gratitude for his agency in redeeming his daughter from 
captivity. In 1662 a release for this tract was executed by 
the chief of the Nissequag tribe, within whose limits it was 
comprehended. 

In 1663 Mr. Gardiner conveyed the territory to Richard 
Smith, who had come from Rhode Island, and was then living 
in Brookhaven. Smith obtained a patent from Gov. Nicoll, 
March 3rd, 1665, in confirmation of his title, in which a con- 
dition was specified, that ten families should be settled thereon 
within three years. It was not, however, recognized as a dis- 
tinct town, till the passage of the act of 1683. 

The first settlement was made at Nissequag on the harbour, 



SECT. 7.] SMITHTOWN. 241 

near the north shore ; and here was the first place of assem- 
bling for the worship of God, and the burial of the dead. 
For a long time this town was called Smithfield ; which was 
at length exchanged for its present names, either of which is 
extremely appropriate, from the large number of the Smiths 
who still inhabit it. 

Churches. 

The first church was erected at Nissequag, but at what 
time, no satisfactory account has been obtained. 

In 1750 it was removed to the village called the Branch, 
lying on the middle road nearer the centre of the town. 

The present building was erected in 1827, and dedicated 
on the 9th of September in that year. 

Ministers. 

The records of the Presbytery of Suffolk show that a 
church, consisting of 7 members, was formed in this town 
Sept. 17th, 1751. Whether there had been a previous organi- 
zation cannot be ascertained. Nor can it be determined 
whether the labours of any minister had been statedly enjoyed, 
previously to the commencement of that century. It appears 
that in the contract with Mr. Phillips to settle in Brookhaven 
in 1697, Smithtown was included as a part of his charge ; 
but whether he divided his services between the two places is 
not known. It was, however, during the life time of Mr. 
Phillips that the name of the Rev. Daniel Taylor occurs as a 
resident at Nissequag, where he buried his wife. He was a 
graduate of Yale in 1707, and after residing here some years, 
removed to New Jersey where he died Jan. 8th, 1748, at the 
age of 64. Whether he was employed here in the ministry, 
and if so, how long, is not ascertained. 

A similar uncertainty attends the history of the next indi- 
vidual, who is found here in the/maracter of a preacher. Mr. 
Abner Reeve, a native of Southold, and a graduate of Yale in 
1731, whose history has been given in connexion with the 
congregations of Moriches and Westhampton, is said to have 
resided at Nissequag some 12 or 14 years from about 1735. 
He first received licence from some ministers in Southold, and 
was not ordained until after he left this town. It must 
have been during his residence here, that his son Tappan 
Reeve, the late distinguished jurist of Connecticut, and 
eminent Christian, was born Oct. 17th, 1744. Here also he 
buried his wife, who died May 6th, 1747. It is not probable 

11 



242 ANNALS OP THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

that he continued to preach all the time of his residence at 
Nissequag, as it was during this period, that he was overcome 
with his besetting sin, which afterwards occasioned him so 
much mortification and pain. 

The Rev. Naplhali Dagget was the first settled pastor in 
this town. He was licensed by the Presbytery of Suffolk, 
Aug. 10th, 1749, and commenced preaching here shortly 
afterwards. The church having been removed to the Branch 
in 1750, he was called and ordained pastor Sept. 18th, 1751. 
He was dismissed, at his own request, for the want of support, 
Nov. 6th, 1755, and shortly after leaving the island, became 
connected with Yale College. 

For nearly 20 years succeeding, this Church had no settled 
pastor, and depended on occasional supplies and temporary 
engagements. The Rev. Thomas Lewis was emp oyed from 
1763 to 1769 — and in 1771 Mr. Daniel Avery spent some time 
here by appointment of the Presbytery. 

The Rev. Joshua Hart was the next pastor. He was born 
at Huntington Sept. 17th, 1738, graduated at Nassau Hall 
1770, and ordained as an evangelist, by the Suffolk Presbytery 
April 2nd, 1772, he being unwilling to preach the gospel as a 
licentiate. He was installed here April 13th, 1774. During 
his incumbency, he devoted a part of his time to the service 
of other churches. In the revolutionary war, being an ardent 
patriot, he suffered much from imprisonment by the British in 
the city of New York, He was dismissed Sept. 6th, 1787. 
He was never settled afterwards, but continued to labour as a 
stated supply in vacant congregations. He died at Fresh- 
pond, Oct. 3rd, 1829, at the advanced age of 91 years. 

Another long vacancy intervened, in which occasional sup- 
plies were enjoyed. A Mr. Halsey was employed from April 
1793 to June 1795, and a Mr. Perkins for a ^ew months after- 
wards. 

In Oct., 1796, the Rev. Luther Gleason (who had been 
ordained in 1788, by the Strict Congregational Convention 
of Connecticut,) commenced preaching here and at Islip, or 
Huntington South. He was installed over these congrega- 
tions, Sept. 28th, 1797, by the Presbytery of Long Island. 
Though a man of very limited education, he was a ready, and 
in seme respects, a popular preacher. For a number of years, 
his services were highly acceptable. But, he was convicted, 
March 20th, 1804, on charges laid before the Presbytery, of 
" making too free use of intoxicating liquors," and " a light- 
ness of deportment unbecoming the sacred profession," both 



SECT. 7.] SMITHTOWN. 243 

of which he confessed, with professions of repentance, and 
was restored to his standing. He was again arraigned, June 
17th, 1806, on charges of a still more serious nature; and 
after a trial of 5 days, was convicted and suspended until he 
should make satisfaction. Notwithstanding Mr. G. had fre- 
quently declared that he could not confess the allegations al- 
leged, without lying to his own conscience, he shortly after 
came before his congregation, and made the prescribed con- 
fession. An acknowledgment made under these circum- 
stances, together with new disclosures of a still more serious 
character, furnished matter for a new series'of charges, which 
were presented by a member of the Presbytery. Mr. G. refused 
to submit to a trial, and abruptly left the Presbytery. Having 
been regularly cited to answer, as required by the Constitu- 
tion, and not appearing, he was suspended from the ministry, 
Aug. 20th, 1807, and after another citation, he was deposed, 
the 16th of Oct. following. Before the completion of this 
process, Mr. G had, on application, been received into the 
L. I. Convention.* 

This unhappy event was attended with the most lament- 
able consequences on the church of Smithtown. It was rent 
in twain, and a part which renounced the jurisdiction of the 
Presbytery, were assembled in a separate congregation, and 
supplied with preaching by the Convention. The church, 
feeble before, was greatly weakened by this schism, and for 
several years was destitute of preaching during three- fourths 
of the time. For six months from Nov. 1809, the Rev. N. 
S. Prime divided his time, by appointment of the Presbytery, 
between this church and Freshpond. 

In Sept. 1811, the Rev. Bradford Marcy commenced 
preaching in this place, and his labours terminated in a most 
remarkable result. Mr. Marcy was a man who, by constitu- 
tional temperament, and other peculiarities, seemed, to human 
appearance, not the best qualified for the existing state of 
things in this town. And yet, it pleased God to use him as 
an instrument to effect that, which appeared to be beyond the 
power of all the clergy on Long Island. The writer may" be 
permitted to speak with confidence on this subject, as he was 

* The principal reason assigned by the members of the Convention in 
justification of this act, was, that they considered Mr. Gleason as belong- 
ing to them, because he had been originally ordained by the Connecticut 
Convention, from which they had derived their ecclesiastical existence. 
And this was the principal point afterwards submitted to arbitrators and 
decided against the claims of the Convention, 



244 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

an eye-witness to many of his operations, being present by 
special invitation from the parties concerned, at several of 
the meetings held on the subject. 

Mr. Marcy, after preaching a few months to the accept- 
ance of both parties, and acquiring, rather than seeking their 
confidence, proposed a joint meeting to try to settle their dif- 
ferences, and unite in one church. Such meetings were held, 
and after mutual explanations and concessions to one an- 
other, a committee consisting of individuals of both parties 
was appointed to meet with the Presbytery, and effect a re- 
conciliation with that body. This Committee attended the 
Presbytery in April, 1812, when the reconciliation was con- 
summated. From that time to the present, they have remained 
a united people ; and that church has been, and still continues, 
in a more prosperous condition than in any previous period of 
its existence. Mr. Marcy remained with this congregation till 
Aug., 1814, when, at his own instance, he left the island. 

Some time in 1815, the Rev. Henry Fuller commenced 
preaching here, and was ordained Oct. 23d, 1819, as pastor of 
the united churches of Smithtown and Freshpond. He was 
dismissed in 1S21, and afterwards was settled in North Stam- 
ford, Conn., where he still remains. 

The Rev. Richard F. Nicoll came to this place in 1822, 
was ordained June 25th, 1823, and dismissed June 5th, 1827. 

The Rev. Ithamar Pillsbury commenced his labours in this 
church, Sept. 9th, 1827, but was not installed till April 21st, 
1830. He was dismissed April 17th, 1833, and after spend- 
ing a year at Sag Harbour, he, with a chosen company, formed 
in good old puritanical style, emigrated and settled the town 
of Andover, III. Mr. Pillsbury is deservedly regarded as the 
patriarch of this new settlement, — a worthy example for fu- 
ture emigrants. 

During the following vacancy, the church was supplied 
by different individuals, among whom are the names of a Mr. 
Alvoid and a Mr. Lockwood. 

In April, 1S35, the Rev. James C. Edwards, who had been 
some time in the service of the 8th Avenue Church, in New- 
York, commencing preaching, under a call, to this church, 
and was installed the 5th of May following. He is still the 
pastor, and the congregation is in a prosperous state. 

Revivals. 

There have been seasons of special interest on the great 
subject of religion at different periods in the history of this 



sect. 8.] islip. 245 

church. It has, indeed, always been small, in comparison 
with the population. But it is remarked by one of the pas- 
tors, that " the earliest records of the church manifest a spirit 
of genuine piety, brotherly love, and Christian forbearance, 
together with unbending fidelity in discipline." But the most 
interesting seasons resulting in the largest increase of the 
church, have occurred under the last two pastors. In 1831, 
and in 1843, the Holy Spirit appears to have been poured out, 
and numbers were hopefully brought to " the obedience of 
faith." In the latter case, it is remarked that " the work was 
silent and deep, while souls were led by the Spirit to Christ, 
as an all-sufficient Saviour, their only refuge. The church 
itself was greatly revived and blessed, and the special influ- 
ences of the Spirit seemed to be enjoyed by God's people, 
long after the work of conversion had ceased." 

The number of communicants at different periods, has been 
as follows : — 

In the year 1827— '30— '33— '39— '42— 45. 

Members . 32,— 46,— 78,— 74,— 62,-81. 

A Methodist Episcopal Church was erected at the Haup- 
paugs, about 2 miles south of the Branch, in 1806. 

In later years, another church of that denomination has 
been erected at the landing, about 3 miles northwest of the 
Branch. 

A year or two since, a Roman Catholic Chapel was erected 
in a small settlement of foreigners, a mile and a half south- 
east of the Branch, which a Roman priest occasionally visits. 

At the present time, (1845,) a Methodist church is in the 
process of erection at the Branch. 

Summary. — There are 4 congregations, and as many 
houses of worship in this town, viz : — 1 Presbyterian, 2 Me- 
thodist, and 1 Roman Catholic, giving an average of 477 
souls to each. 

Section 8.— ISLIP. 

Number of acres improved, . . . 8,016 

" " unimproved, . . . 63,984 

Ratio of population to the acre, 1 to 34. 
This town is bounded on the north by Smithtown and 
Brookhaven, east by Brookhaven, south by the Gteat Bay, 
and west by Huntington. 

The township does not, like the others, extend to the ocean ; 
but a large portion of the great beach in front of it belongs to 
Brookhaven. 



246 ANXALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

And here we have a striking illustration of the pernicious 
influence on the interests of population, resulting from the 
accumulation of land in the hands of a few owners ; espe- 
cially where that accumulation is perpetuated by the old feu- 
dal law of entailment. Although a large portion of this town- 
ship is naturally incapable of maintaining a large population, 
as it embraces extensive tracts of sterile plains and vast 
swamps, yet the necks and other tracts of land are good, and 
capable of sustaining a much larger number of inhabitants 
than it now contains ; and as the law of entailment is now 
abrogated, it may be expected that the evil will be gradually 
remedied, though time will be required to render the work 
effectual. 

The great Nicolls Patent commenced on the east line of 
the town, about 2 miles west of Patchogue, and extended 10 
miles west, covering a tract nearly 10 miles square, or about 
60,000 acres. It was originally purchased of Winnequaheagh, 
the Sachem of Connectquut, confirmed by a patent from Gov. 
Dongan, and afterwards by Gov. Fletcher. It has been re- 
duced about one third, by sales made under a special act of 
the legislature, passed May 3d, 1786, for the relief of the pro- 
prietor, who had become embarrassed by debt. The residue 
of the lands being divided among the heirs at law, they are 
offered for sale on liberal terms, and are gradually passing 
into other hands. 

Many of the first settlers, it is supposed, emigrated from 
Islipe in Oxfordshire, England, whence originated the name 
of the town. The number, however, was so small, that no 
regular municipal government was established till after the 
commencement of the last century. In 1710, an act was 
passed by the colonial legislature, authorizing such an organi- 
zation ; but the inhabitants being so few, and more than half 
of the territory being in the hands of a single individual, they 
probably felt no inclination to avail themselves of its provis- 
ions. The first town-meeting of which there is any record, 
was held on the first Tuesday in April, 1720. 

The principal part of the population of this town is dis- 
tributed along the great south road, and on the adjacent necks. 
Till within a few years, nothing like a village or compact set- 
tlement \v%s to be found within its limits ; now there are two 
claiming this appellation : Sayville, 5J miles west of Patcho- 
gue, in the eastern part of the town ; and Mechanicsville, ( for- 
merly called Sodom 1) in the western part, about 6 miles east 
of Babylon. 



sect. 8.] islip. 247 

The religious history of this town is much more concise 
than its secular. Till very recently, nothing in the shape of 
an ecclesiastical organization existed within its bounds. 

In 1769, a small church edifice was erected by the pa- 
tentee, near the middle of the town, on the south road, de- 
signed for the celebration of divine worship according to the 
forms of the Episcopal church ; and was occasionally used for 
that purpose, though it long remained unblessed by prelatical 
hands. From 1814, the Rev. Charles Seabury, rector of Caro- 
line church at Setauket, acted as a missionary to this congre- 
gation, and devoted a portion of his time to its service. 

In 1843, this church was repaired and enlarged, and on the 
6th of July duly consecrated by the bishop. Since that time, 
the Rev. Daniel V. M. Johnson has officiated as rector. The 
present number of communicants is 14. 

At Mechanicsville, a Methodist church has been erected 
within a few years, and is regularly supplied. At Sayville, 
the Protestant Methodists maintain preaching, but no church 
has yet been erected. 

In the western part of the town, which was originally occu- 
pied by the Segatague tribe of Indians, there was formerly a 
small Indian church collected, but whether they had a house 
of worship is not known. This place was one of the stations 
at which Azariah Horton and other missionaries occasionally 
laboured ; and it is one of the few points, at which the re- 
mains of aboriginal blood may be traced on the shores. Here 
and there you meet a countenance, even at this day, that bears 
evident traces of native descent. The church above men- 
tioned is said to have been organized by Peter John, whose 
brief history has been previously given ; but it has long since 
become extinct. 

The central and northern parts of this town form almost one 
continuous wilderness, with scarcely any inhabitants, and bids 
fair to remain so. The two small churches which have been 
mentioned, are the only places of worship within its limits. 
Some few of the inhabitants on the east and west borders are 
attached to congregations in the adjacent towns ; but the 
greater part of the population must be living in utter destitu- 
tion of the means of grace. From this fact, and the additional 
consideration that this town is a great resort for sportsmen 
and men of pleasure, the state of morals may be inferred. 
Here are several large hotels, furnished with billiard tables, 
ninepin-alleys, and other means of amusement and dissipa- 
tion, which doubtless exert a much more powerful effect on 



248 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

the public morals than all the counter influences that are here 
enjoyed. So that, on the whole, to a moral and religious 
man, this town presents the most undesirable residence of any 
town in the county. 

It is due to the people of this town, to say that their school- 
houses present the appearance, externally, of being spacious 
and comfortable buildings ; and it is to be inferred that the 
rising generation are favoured with the privilege of good com- 
mon schools. 

Summary. — Two churches, 1 Episcopal and 1 Methodist, 
with a population of 2,098 souls. 

Section 9.— HUNTINGTON. 

Number of acres improved, - - - 32,532 

" " " unimproved, - - 59,968 

Ratio of population to the acre, 1 to 14 nearly. 

This is the most western town in Suffolk County, being 
bounded on the west by Oyster Bay, in Queen's Co. — on the 
east by Smithtown and Islip ; and extends from L. I. Sound, 
including Eaton's Neck, on the north to the ocean. It has 
been previously stated that Lloyd's Neck, (formerly called 
Horse Neck) though united with this town by a beach, and 
lying on the east side of Oyster Bay, is attached to Queen's 
County. 

The first purchase from the natives was made by Gov. Ea- 
ton, of New Haven, in 1646, and consisted of the Neck, that 
still bears his name, lying directly east of Lloyd's Neck, and 
is connected with the north-east corner of the town, by a sand 
beach 3 miles in length. 

In lw53, a purchase of 6 miles square, on the north side 
of the island, extending from Cold Spring Harbour on the 
west, to Cow-Harbour on the east, was made of the Indians, 
by a company that came from Sandwich, Mass. That colo- 
ny having been formed of persons collected from different set- 
tlements, there was less of that homogeneous character in the 
first settlers of this town, than on the eastern parts of the 
island. 

As the number of immigrants increased, additional pur- 
chases were made, till the extent of the town was adjusted to 
its present boundaries. 

In its original organization, this town, like the most of the 
others, was a perfectly independent government, founded by 
the voluntary association of the sovereign people. In 1660, 



SECT. 9.] HUNTINGTON. 249 

for the purpose of security against external aggression, and 
especially to secure themselves from coming under the juris- 
diction of the Dutch, they were taken, by their own request, 
under the government of the Hartford colony. After the sur- 
render of the New Netherlands to the British, this town was 
with great reluctance, and after much opposition, finally con- 
strained to submit to the government of the Duke of York. 

The original settlement, still forming the principal village 
in the town, is on the north side, spread over a considerable 
territory at the head of the harbour. The entrance of the 
harbour is the opening into the Sound, between Lloyd's Neck 
and Eaton's Neck, called Huntington Bay, and extends up 
into the land, a distance of 5 miles, forming 4 or 5 distinct 
harbours, or principal landings: viz., Lloyd's harbour — West 
Neck — Huntington — Little Cow Harbour and Great Cow 
Harbour. The two latter now claim the name of Centreport 
and Northport. All these harbours lie within, or adjacent to, 
the territorial limits of this town, from which a considerable 
coasting trade is carried on. From a very early period, a 
ferry has been maintained between this village and Norvvaik, 
Ct., a distance of 20 miles, which is regulated by the town. 

There are several other settlements or villages within the 
bounds of this large township, in most of which, are now re- 
ligious organizations and houses of worship ; which have been 
increased, of late years, to an enormous extent. The writer 
can recollect distinctly, when there were only 4 church edi- 
fices in the town, and divine worship statedly maintained in 
only one of them. Then, this principal parish occupied a 
territory of more than 100 square miles, and the parish church 
was regularly attended by multitudes, many of whom came 
8 or 9 miles. And it was cheering to the soul, on the sab- 
bath morning to see the people flocking, in crowds, to the 
house of God ; while the adjacent lawns were literally 
covered with their teams and plain covered waggons. Then 
too, the people did not become tired, by the service of half a 
day. To see a family get into their carriage and return home 
at noon, excited universal astonishment, and every body in- 
quired, what is the matter ? These recollections often awaken 
in the writer's bosom a melancholy pleasure, and make him 
feel willing to perform a pilgrimage, only to witness one such 
gathering on the holy sabbath, as he was familiar with, in his 
native church, in the days of his childhood. 

But those days are gone ; never to return. The ancient 
land-marks are, in a great measure, removed, and [ew are left 

11* 



250 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

to remember where they stood. Now 18 houses of worship 
occupy the same ground, which, half a century ago, was al- 
most exclusively devoted to the support of one : and not one 
of them is attended by a congregation more than half as large 
as ordinarily attended the old parish- church — the most of them 
very small. 

The principal villages or settlements within the town, are 
the following : viz., Cold Spring — Cow Harbour (Centreport 
and Northport) — Red Hook or Freshpond — Wm/je-Comack, 
(the prefix being now seldom used) — Dix-Hills — Long Swamp 
— West Hills— Sweet Hollow — Half-way Hollow Hills — 
Babylon and Huntington South. 

There are many things of an interesting character in the 
annals of this town, particularly daring the revolutionary war, 
which, though they do not belong strictly to its religious histo- 
ry, are so intimately connected with its ecclesiastical affairs, 
that they will demand some notice. 

Churches, &c. 

An ecclesiastical organization was formed here, at an early 
date ; though the precise time is not ascertained. The church, 
it is known, was originally congregational or independent, and 
remained so till March 30lh, 1748, when, by a very unani- 
mous vote, it united with the Suffolk Presbytery. A church- 
session was soon after regularly constituted ; and no church 
on the island has more uniformly and unitedly maintained the 
Presbyterian form of government. 

The first house cf worship was erected in 1665, on a site 
in the valley a little west of the present location. It was re- 
paired and enlarged about 20 years afterwards. 

In 1715, a new building was commenced on the former 
site ; but after the frame was raised, it was taken down and 
removed, (in compliance with the desire of a large portion of 
the people,) to the spot where the present church stands. It 
was furnished with a bell, which at that day, was a rare ap- 
pendage to a country church. This building remained till the 
British took possession of the island, and stationed a consi- 
derable force in this town. 

Though all the Island, especially the western parts, suffered 
greatly from the insolence and oppression of the soldiery, and 
still more from the depredations of the Tories, under their au- 
thority and protection ; no town was subjected to equal out- 
rages on their feelings and property, with this town. The 
seats in the house of God were torn up and the building con- 



SECT. 9.] HUNTINGTON. 2*31 

verted into a military depot. The bell was taken away, and 
though afterwards restored, it was so injured as to be useless. 
Subsequently (1782) when the contest was virtually ended, 
the church was entirely pulled down, and the timber used to 
erect block-houses and barracks for the troops. And to wound 
the feelings of the inhabitants most deeply, these structures 
were erected in the centre of the burying ground, the graves 
levelled and the tomb-stones used for building their fire-places 
and ovens. The writer has often heard old men testify, from 
the evidence of their own senses, that they had seen the loaves 
of bread drawn out of these ovens, with the reversed inscrip- 
tions of the tomb-stones of their friends on the lower crust. 

The redoubtable commander in these sacrilegious proceed, 
ings, it has been previously stated, was Colonel Benjamin 
Thompson, a native of Mass., and the same man that was af- 
terwards created, by the Duke of Bavaria, and known to the 
world, as Count Rumfokd. But his acts in this place have 
given him an immortality, which all his military exploits, his 
philosophical disquisitions and scientific discoveries will never 
secure to him, among the descendants of this outraged com- 
munity. It would seem that during the whole war, no stone 
was left unturned to annoy the persons, and injure the pro- 
perty of the inhabitants. Their orchards were cut down, 
their fences burned, and the scanty crops which they were 
able to raise under these embarrassments, were often seized by 
lawless force for the use of the soldiers, or recklessly destroyed 
to gratify their malice. The aged pastor of the congregation, 
while he lived, was peculiarly obnoxious, on account of his 
known patriotic views and feelings. When the troops first 
entered the town, the officers housed their horses in the pas- 
tor's stable, and littered thern with sheaves of unthreshed 
wheat, while they cursed the " old rebel," as they were pleased 
to call him. They then took possession of his house, for their 
quarters, breaking the furniture, which they did not need, tear- 
ing leaves out of his most valuable books, or entirely destroying 
one volume of a set, as if to render them valueless, without 
taking the trouble to destroy the whole. While recording 
these worse than Vandal transactions, the writer is sitting in 
the identical chair which his grand-sire occupied before him, 
and which still bears the deep marks of British outrage. 
And he has books lying before him, with the impress of the 
same savage hands. Does the reader require any apology, 
for this apparent digression, in giving vent to feelings of just 
indignation ? 



252 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART. 2, 

In 1784, the year after the peace, the present church edi- 
fice was erected. It was considered a sort of paragon, being 
spacious, and finished in the most approved style of that day. 
It was furnished with a bell, which has called the assembly to 
the house of God, and tolled the knell of thousands, for more 
than 50 years. The church has undergone no alteration, ex- 
cept receiving a modernized pulpit ; and having always been 
kept in excellent repair, bids fair to last for many years to 
come. The congregation, once the largest on the island, has 
been greatly diminished by the erection of new churches, of 
the same or different denominations in the town, but it is still 
respectable in point of numbers, property, and piety. 

Ministers* 

The Rev. William Leverich, who was among the first set- 
tlers of Oysterbay, was the first pastor of this church. He 
was settled here about the year 1658. He remained in this 
charge till 1669, when he removed to Newtown. 

The Rev. Eliphalet Jones, was invited to this town in Jan. 
1676, having previously declined an invitation from the con- 
gregation of Jamaica. He was, at that time, residing at 
Greenwich, Ct. He is said to have been the son of the Rev. 
Mr. Jones, the first minister of Fairfield, and was born at 
Concord, Mass., on " the 9th of the 11th month, 1640." He 
appears to have hesitated about accepting the overtures of the 
people, and did not consent, until he had spent a year among 
them. He was then settled with great unanimity, and con- 
tinued in that relation more than half a century. Although the 
name still exists in this vicinity, " it is pretty well ascertained 
that he did not leave any posterity." He is believed " to have 
been a man of great purity and simplicity of manners, and a 
faithful and successful preacher." Little is known of his ta- 
lents and acquirements. At the ordination of a colleague, 
when he was more than 80 years of age, ho delivered the 
charge, which the candidate transcribed upon the records of 
the church, and into his own private diary, both of which now 
lie before the writer. It breathes the spirit of piety, and ex- 
hibits a deep sense of the responsibilities of the sacred office. 
He died June 5th, 1731, in the 91st year of his age. Though 
the place of his sepulture is not known, a number of gentle- 
men of this congregation, with a laudable respect for his cha- 
racter, have erected, within a few years, a plain monument 
to his memory, in the public burying ground. Such acts of 



^SECT. 9.] HUNTINGTON. 253 

generosity, especially where there are no ties of blood to 
prompt them, speak as much for the living as for the dead. 

The Rev. Ebcnezcr Prime commenced his labours as the 
assistant of Mr. Jones, June 21st, 1719, in which relation he 
remained 4 years. He was born at Miiford, July 21st, 1700, 
and graduated at Yale, in 1718. Being regularly called, he 
was ordained collegiate pastor, June 5th, 1723, by a council 
of ministers, one half of whom were from Connecticut, and 
the others from the eastern part of the island. He died Sept. 
25th, [or Oct. 3d, as another account states,] 1779. 

His character is concisely drawn by another, in the follow- 
ing brief extract : — " He was a man of sterling character, of 
powerful intellect, and possessed the reputation of an able and 
faithful divine. His library was unusually large and valua- 
ble, for the times. Few clergymen possessed an influence 
more general ; and few, it may be said, more entirely deserved 
it." It may, without impropriety, be added, that he was a dili- 
gent student, and extremety exact and systematic in all his 
affairs. And although the most of his MSS. as well as many 
of his valuable books were mutilated and destroyed by the 
British, yet, it appears from his register of texts, dates, and 
places of preaching, which was kept, without a single omis- 
sion, to the close of his life, that he prepared more than 3, (J GO 
written sermons, which, according to the custom of the day, 
when people were not easily wearied with the sound of the 
gospel, were of great length. More of his discourses than 
those of ordinary pastors at that time, were published, parti- 
cularly those delivered at ordinations, and on other special 
occasions, which are still extant. On the subject of the gos- 
pel commission, he entertained some peculiar views, and be- 
lieving that as ample qualifications and high authority were 
required to preach the gospel, as to administer its ordinances, 
he could not, in conscience, consent to license men to preach, 
without, at the same time, ordaining them to the work of the 
ministry. These views he illustrated and defended in two 
sermons, which were published at the time. And it would 
seem, that a number of the Presbytery of Suffolk accorded in 
these views ; as we find in the minutes of the Synod of New- 
York and Philadelphia, in 1771, a communication from Mr. 
P., and others of that Presbytery, stating conscientious scru- 
ples in regard to complying with the order of the Synod, [in 
1764,] respecting ordination sine titulo. Though Mr. P.'s 
views remained unchanged, they were somewhat modified, by 
the scarcity of ministers and the necessities of the times. 



254 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [l*ART 2, 

Near the close of his life, he did admit licentiates to preach in 
his pulpit ; but he would never permit them to pronounce the 
apostolic benediction ; believing, that this was an official act, 
which an unordained man had no more right to perform, than 
to administer the special ordinances. 

The Rev. John Close, the fourth pastor, was called and or- 
dained as a colleague to Mr. Prime, Oct. 30th, 1766, but he 
was dismissed April 4th, 1773. He removed to New Wind- 
sor, and afterwards to Waterford ; where he died. From the 
time of his removal from Huntington, Mr. P. had no regular 
aid during his life. Though he was very infirm, and often 
laid aside, the troubles of the war prevented any measures to 
procure an assistant. The congregation, having become va- 
cant in the revolution, and suffering peculiar trials during that 
gloomy period, remained unsupplied till after the peace. 

The Rev. Nathan JVoodhull, the fifth pastor, was ordained 
Dec. 22nd, 1785. He remained, however, less than 4 years; 
was dismissed April 21st, 1789, and removed to Newtown, 
where he ended his days. 

Here, from peculiar causes, a vacancy of 5 years succeed- 
ed. But it is worthy of record, that during all this time, when 
no occasional preaching was enjoyed, regular devotional ser- 
vices, accompanied with the reading of a sermon, were con- 
stantly maintained ; principally by the pious zeal and perse- 
verance of one of the officers of the church, whose memory 
is embalmed in the hearts of many, with a fragrance, more 
grateful, than that of precious ointment. James Nostrant 
was for 54 years an elder of this church ; and though he lived 
at the time of this vacancy, 5 miles from the sanctuary, 
he was probably not five times absent from the house of God. 
Through storms of rain, or hail, or snow, as well as in fair 
weather, he was always seen, exactly at the hour, ascending 
the hill of Zion ; and whether the congregation were favoured 
with preaching, or depended on him to lead their devotions, 
he was always in his place. Some now living can remember, 
with what pious ardour he always poured forth the desires of 
his soul. He was, without exception, the most uniformly de- 
vout, and consistent Christian, that the writer ever knew. It 
may be ascribed to the partiality of early respect and friend- 
ship, but he feels himself more personally indebted, under 
God, to the counsel and prayers of this man of God, than to 
those of any other man that ever lived. He died Feb. 7th, 1813, 
at the advanced age of nearly 90 years. The interests of re- 
ligion, in this large town, which at that time constituted a sin- 



SECT. 9.] HUNTINGTON. 255 

gle congregation, are probably as much indebted to the influ- 
ence and labours of this individual as to any minister that 
ever served them.* 

It would appear incredible at the present day, if it should 
be stated, how generally and with what interest this congre- 
gation attended, during this long vacancy, on "reading meet- 
ings," and how ardently they hailed the proclamation of the 
gospel by an occasional supply. The writer can never forget, 
though he was a mere child at the time, what a sensation was 
produced by the unexpected entrance of a clergyman, (who 
had been detained through the night on the Sound,) just at the 
close of the morning service, and by the annunciation that 
there would be preaching in the afternoon. Scarcely any 
one left the precincts of the church ; the bell sent forth a 
more significant peal — the tolling (which was always omitted 
when there was no preacher) was prolonged, that all within 
the reach of the sound might know that there was an " am- 
bassador for God" in the place ; and, till the afternoon ser- 
vice was far advanced, the people were still Hocking to the 
house of the Lord, most expressively saying by their counte- 
nances, as they entered, " How beautiful upon the mountains 
are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth 
peace ; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth 
salvation ; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth." Would 
to God that the days of old might be restored. 

The Rev. William Schenck, the sixth pastor, was installed 
Dec. 27th, 1793, and was dismissed in 1817, when he removed 
to Ohio, where the most of his children had previously settled. 
He was a dignified and excellent man ; though not distin- 
guished as a great and popular preacher, his labours were ac- 
ceptable, and the church received large accessions under his 
ministry. He had been previously settled at Cape May, in 
Jersey, and subsequently at Ballston, N. Y. He died at 

* An instructive anecdote, in relation to this good man, is worth pre- 
serving. An irreligious man, whose house Deacon Nostrant always passed 
in going to church, was in the habit of ridiculing his pious zeal. One sab- 
bath morning, accompanied by a violent snow-storm, he stood looking 
out of his window, and observing Deacon N. facing the storm, he said to 
his wife, " There goes that old fool." Time passed on; and some years 
afterwards, the Spirit of God arrested this individual, and brought him 
prostr.ite at the foot of the cross. But he could not quiet his mind, till he 
had gone to the Deacon, and confessed, with deep humility and regret, 
the unworthy speech which he had made, years before, and of which the 
deacon had never been informed. The writer has often heard the good 
old man tell the story, and " glory in being" esteemed " a fool for Christ's 
sake." 



256 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

Franklin, Oh. 3 September 1st, 1822, being nearly 85 years 
of age. 

The Rev. Samuel Robertson was ordained Nov. 28th, 1S16, 
as a colleague to Mr. Schenck, and was at the same time a 
stated supply of the church at Hempstead, where he laboured 
half the time. After Mr. S.'s dismission, he confined his la- 
bours to this congregation till Nov. 20th, 1823, when he was 
dismissed and left the island. 

The Rev. Nehemiah Brown, the eighth pastor, was ordained 
Oct. 18th, 1824, and, after remaining nearly 8 years, was 
dismissed June 25th, 1832. 

In the settlement of this gentleman, a most unhappy schism 
was produced in the congregation, not only among them- 
selves, but in their relation to the Presbytery of Long Island. 
When the Presbytery met, and entered upon the trials of Mr. 
B. for ordination, his examination on one of the subjects 
was not sustained. This decision resulted, probably, not 
merely from the short interview which the Presbytery had 
with the candidate, but from a previous acquaintance of some 
of the members with Mr. B., while he resided near them in 
the capacity of a teacher. Upon communicating this result 
to the congregation, great dissatisfaction was produced, and 
the Presbytery adjourned without being able to allay it. Sub- 
sequently, in a public meeting, the congregation, by a ma- 
jority of votes, withdrew from the Presbytery of Long Island, 
and declared themselves independent. Shortly after, they ap- 
plied to the 2d Presbytery of New York, who received them, 
and, on the day above mentioned, ordained and installed Mr. 
Brown. This unhappy schism, strangely sanctioned by a sis- 
ter Presbytery, produced the most painful state of things in 
the church and congregation. Families, even parents and 
children, were divided, — and, in some instances, bitter animosi- 
ties were produced and perpetuated ; and the cause of re- 
ligion, of course, suffered serious injury. Without expressing 
an opinion on the merits of the original question, for which 
he has not the needful data, the writer may be allowed to say, 
that the course taken by the congregation was entirely wrong, 
and subversive of all order and authority in the church. It 
would have been far better for them to suffer a wrong, than to 
have done so manifest a wrong. Their edification and the 
salvation of their children did not depend on having Mr. B. 
for their minister^ even though he were the best man in the 
world, — while the course they took was one, that was fraught 
with certain evils to them and their posterity. Besides, it 



SECT. 9.] HUNTINGTON. 257 

was an act of rebellion against the authority of the Presbytery, 
of which they were a constituent part, and to which they had 
promised subjection. And although all human courts are liable 
to err, it is far better to submit now and then to an incorrect 
decision, than to hazard everything by dissolving all the bonds 
of society. Nothing but an extremity will ever justify a revo- 
lution. , The Synod, in reviewing these transactions the same 
month, endeavoured, as far as in their power, to obviate the 
evil consequences naturally resulting from such a procedure, 
by declaring that there was " great irregularity in the pro- 
ceedings," and that " the Second Presbytery of New York did 
not exercise due deliberation in receiving the congregation of 
Huntington, which withdrew itself irregularly from under the 
care of the Presbytery of Long Island." But, " upon a gene- 
ral review of this unhappy case," they deemed it best, and did 
accordingly "set off" said congregation, " to belong in future 
to the Second Presbytery of New York." 

After Mr. B.'s dismission, the Synod, in Oct., 1832, in divid- 
ing the L. I. Presbytery, gave permission to such churches on 
the island as were connected with the city Presbyteries, to 
unite with the Second Presbytery of Long Island. Under this 
permission, the congregation became again united with the 
neighbouring churches. Since that time it has been happily 
associated, its affairs have been conducted with great regu- 
larity, and the effects of that lamentable schism wonderfully 
effaced from the minds of the people. 

The Rev. Solomon F. Halliday, the ninth pastor, was or- 
dained April 17th, 1833, but not installed till the 2d of July 
following. He was dismissed April 19th, 1836. 

The Rev. James JSPDougal, the tenth pastor, was installed 
Nov. 2d, 1836, and continues in the deserved esteem of his 
people. 

Revivals, &c. 

There are no records extant of the state and progress of 
this church during the incumbency of the first two pastors. 
The third pastor, when driven from his own dwelling, hastily 
leaving it, with most of its contents, to the depredations of 
British vassals, appears to have carried away in safety, the 
annals of his own extended ministry. That venerable volume, 
now more than 125 years old, lies before the writer, contain- 
ing in a bold, legible hand, the record of every text on which 
he had prepared a written discourse — the names of all the 
persons he had baptized, admitted to the communion of the 



258 ANNALS OP THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

church, or united in marriage, during his ministry of 60 years, 
together with the proceedings of the session in the adminis- 
tration of discipline. 

From this, it appears, that at the time of his ordination in 
1723, there were 41 members in the communion of the church; 
14 male and 27 female. Afterwards added, 109 males, 219 
females. In the course of the same time he administered 
2,381 baptisms, celebrated 822 marriages, and prepared more 
than 3,000 written sermons. 

In the year 1741, this congregation participated in the 
general awakening of that day. The work was characterized 
by the same peculiar marks, as in other parts of the land. 
The pastor being called upon, on one occasion, to preach at 
the close of a military " training" which would be deemed a 
singular preaching occasion in this day, he remarks in his 
private diary, that at this meeting, several were brought " un- 
der strong convictions," and " the main part of the congrega- 
tion were in tears." Of another meeting a few days after, 
he says, " Preached on John vii. 37, — great numbers cried out 
in distress — the power of God was marvellous." Numerous 
hopeful conversions are stated to have taken place, and gene- 
rally after " convictions of long continuance." 

Again in 1764, this church enjoyed another season of special 
refreshing. How extensively it prevailed, and how many 
were the happy subjects of the work, it is difficult to ascertain 
with precision. The following is an extract from the Rev. 
Mr. Prime's letter under date of May 8th, of that year, pub- 
lished by Dr. Buel in his narrative of the revival in Easthamp- 
ton : " Although there are some among us, I hope but very 
few, that oppose themselves, yet blessed be God, his glorious 
work of grace goes on here ! The greatest part of our people 
seemed to be solemnized and made thoughtful ; not a few 
wounded deeply at heart, and groaning under burdens insup- 
portable, some under shuddering horror, and fearful apprehen- 
sions of divine wrath." The private diary of Mr. P., under 
date of Sept. 2, 17G4, after noticing the administration of the 
Lord's Supper, in which he was assisted by Messrs. Buel and 
Whitaker, he says : " God has poured out his spirit in a sur- 
prising manner upon this people — glory be to his name." — 
What renders this work the more remarkable is, that there had 
been troubles in the church (of what kind is not stated,) that 
had caused the administration of the ordinance to be suspend- 
ed from June 5th, 1763, to the time above mentioned. This 
it seems was very much the practice of some churches in that 



SECT. 9.] HUNTINGTON. 259 

day, in times of trial and difficulty. A greater number was 
added to the church in this revival than in that of 1741-2 ; 
and, what is worthy of distinct notice, a greater number of 
males than females. 

No other general awakening is known to have taken place 
till 1800. In the spring of that year a deep interest on the 
subject of religion commenced, which spread through the 
congregation, and continued, with very little abatement, till 
the succeeding winter, and indeed into the following year. A 
large number professed to become the subjects of renewing 
grace. The writer may be allowed to say, that he well re- 
collects that season of mercy, it being the period at which his 
own mind was first permanently impressed with a sense of 
divine things, and in which many of his dear friends and com- 
panions were hopefully brought into the kingdom. The fruits 
of this revival have been chiefly gathered into the garner of 
God, and few remain to tell what was then done for their souls. 
But a savour has been left behind which will never be lost. 

Again, the years 1810 — '17 — '32 and '42-3 have been dis- 
tinguished as seasons of special refreshing from the presence 
of the Lord, and at each of these times, considerable additions 
were made to the communion of the church. 

The following items will show the different fluctuations of 
this church for the last 60 years : — 

At the time of Mr. Schenck's settlement in 1793, there 
were about 40 members of the church. During his ministry 
were added 331. At the time of his dismission, the whole 
number surviving was 263. This number was somewhat in- 
creased under the ministry of Mr. Robertson. But by the 
dissatisfaction occasioned by Mr. Brown's settlement it was 
reduced to 200. This number was still further reduced in 
1829, by the dismission of 45 members, to form the church at 
Sweet Hollow. By the last report made by Mr. Brown, the 
total number of members was 130. Since that time, the 
church has gradually increased. The number of members re- 
ported the present year is 237. 



An Episcopal Church was erected in this village some- 
where between 1750 and '60, and the Rev. James Greaton 
was stationed here in 17G7, and remained till his death, in 
1773. Though afterwards occasionally supplied, there was 
no stated service maintained till the close of the century, 



260 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

Indeed, for many years, the house was not opened, and was 
literally the undisturbed possession of bats and owls. It was, 
however, repaired, about 40 years ago, and service re-estab- 
lished, but with considerable irregularity. Some 10 years 
ago, this church being placed on the missionary establishment, 
it has been supplied with more regularity. For several years 
the Rev. J. Sherwood, of Cold Spring, devoted a part of his 
time to its service. The Rev. Mr. Hall is the present rector. 

In 1825, a Methodist Epis. church was erected in this 
village, and the society is supplied with constant preaching. 
It numbers between 70 and 80 members. 

In 1836-7, a church edifice was erected by the universal- 
ists, near the burying ground. 

In the eastern part of the village, near the Episcopal 
church, is a small building erected for a school, that is now 
occupied as an African Meth. (Zion) church. 

In 1794, an Academy was erected directly opposite the 
Presbyterian church. This institution was never chartered, 
or placed on the foundation of the public Academies of the 
state. Its reputation has been fluctuating. Sometimes a 
good classical school has been maintained, and at others, it 
has differed little from a common school. 

By a legacy recently left to this institution, by Nathaniel 
Potter, Esq., ample provision is made for the gratuitous in- 
struction of all the poor of the village. Though the validity 
of the will has been contested, it is to be hoped that the bene- 
volent design of the testator will not be defeated. 

The same individual bequeathed a similar sum to the Pres- 
byterian church, which is involved in a like controversy. But 
when we consider the influence of such endowments on an 
able religious society, a failure in realizing it would not be the 
occasion of as much regret as in the former case. 

Cold Spring is a considerable village in the northwest cor- 
ner of the town, lying on a harbour known by the same name, 
which constitutes the head of Oyster Bay. The Indian name 
was Nacliaqaatuck. A Methodist church was erected here 
in 1842. 

A Baptist church was organized a few years ago, of which 
a son of the Rev. Mr. Earle, of Oyster Bay, has been pastor 
for the last two years. A house of worship has been erected 
the past summer. 

Cenlreport, (formerly Core Harbour,) is a settlement 3 
miles east of the village of Huntington. A church was erect- 
ed here some 25 years ago, by that section of the Methodist 



SECT. 9.j HUNTINGTON. 261 

church which has been denominated Stilwellites, In 1831 it 
was taken down and removed to Comack. In 1838 a new 
house was erected on the same site, and is occupied by the 
same sect. 

About a mile and a half east, at the head of Great Cow 
Harbour, near what is now called Northport, a Methodist 
Epis. church was erected in 1833. 

Freshpond is a vicinage in the northeast corner of the 
town, where a house of worship was erected some 60 years 
ago, but the precise date is not ascertained. It was supplied, 
a part of the time, by the Rev. Joshua Hart, while he con- 
tinued at Smithtown, and after his dismission from that place. 
The organisation of a church here was reported to the Pres- 
bytery by Mr. H., Oct. 12th, 1796. It was, however, small, 
and continued so, till in 1809 it had become well-nigh ex- 
tinct. In the autumn of that year, the Rev. N. S. Prime com- 
menced labouring here, and remained a year and a half. The 
church was resuscitated, officers elected, a considerable at- 
tention and seriousness existed. In the course of the year 20 
were added to the church, which then consisted of about 40 
members. 

In 1829, the house of worship was taken down, and rebuilt 
at Red Hook, about a mile and a half west of its former lo- 
cation, but the church still bears its original name. 

This church remained vacant till 1816, when it was united 
with Smithtown, in the settlement of the Rev. Henry Fuller, 
who was dismissed in 1819. 

Mr. Ebenezer Piatt, a licentiate, laboured here from 1822 
to '24. 

The Rev. Nehemiah B. Cook was ordained pastor of this 
church and Islip, or Babylon, Jan. 19, 1826, and was dis- 
missed in 1832. 

A vacancy of 5 years succeeded, in which the church was 
served by several different ministers. 

The Rev. E. McLaughlin from 1833 to 1834. The Rev. 
Messrs. Wickham and Sparry, in 1835. The Rev. Mr. Cook 
from 1835 to 1836. 

In 1837, the Rev. William Townley commenced labouring 
here, and continued till April, 1843. 

In 1844, the Rev. Ebenezer Piatt, who had laboured here 
20 years ago, became a stated supply, and is still labouring 
with this people. 

This church has continued to increase, having enjoyed 



262 ANNALS OP THE TOWNS. [PAKT , 

special revivals in 1810, '16, '22, and '32, and now consists of 
145 members. Its largest number was 154, in 1842. 

Winne-Comack is a small settlement near the eastern L -» 
of the town, on the middle road. It has been occupied princi- 
pally by the Methodists ; and they erected a house of worship 
here in 1789, which was the first belonging to that denomiri- 
tion in the county, and the second on the Island. It was very 
thoroughly repaired in 1838. 

More than 20 years ago, a number of this Society became 
Stilwellites, and a class of that section was organized her". 
In 1831, the house which had been erected at Centreport, b, 
their brethren, was taken down and rebuilt in this vicinity, 
and is still occupied. 

West Hills. — This is a small settlement, about 3 or 4 miles 
to the southwest of the village of Huntington. It derives its 
name from the spur of hills which here extends from the high- 
lands on the north, nearly to the middle of the island. Janes' 
Hill is one of the highest elevations on Long Island, and has 
been supposed by some to exceed that at Hempstead Har- 
bour. Its naked top affords a most extended view of the main, 
the sound, the island itself, and the ocean. Numerous springs 
have their origin in these hills, that send forth unfailing 
streams which, after running to a considerable distance, form 
ponds that are evaporated by the sun or disappear in the 
sand. 

This little settlement is about midway between the old par- 
ish and Sweet Hollow, and the population, which formerly 
belonged exclusively to the former congregation, is now di- 
vided between them. 

In 1844, the Methodists erected a small house of worship 
on the eastern boundary of this neighbourhood, for the mu- 
tual accommodation of this neighbourhood and Long Swamp 
— another small settlement a little to the eastward. 

Sweet Hollow is a settlement near the middle of the 
town, from north to south, which, until 1829, constituted a 
part of the old congregation. But on the 25th of May in 
that year, 45 members, dismissed from the village church, 
were organized into a distinct church, by a committee of the 
Presbytery of New- York, and received under the care of 
that body on the 13th of Oct. following. 

On the 20th of March preceding, the erection of a church 
had been commenced, and was completed and dedicated 
July 26th, 1829. 



-SECT. 9,] HUNTINGTON, 263 

The Rev. N. C. Saxton laboured here for a few months in 
the summer and fall of that year. 

• The Rev. Joseph Nimmo commenced his labours as a stated 
supply, in Dec. 1829, and continued till the 1st of May, 1836. 
The Rev. Chester Long succeeded, on the Sabbath follow- 
ing Mr. N.'s departure, and still remains with this people. 
The present number of members in this church is 118. 
About a mile to the southwest of this place, on the road to 
Farmingdale, the Methodists have recently commenced the 
erection of a house of worship, which will probably be com- 
J pleted this fall. 

Babylon. — In 1730, a small church edifice was erected 
at Huntington South, in the village now called Babylon, which 
was occasionally occupied, but by no permanent minister. It 
was torn down by the British in 1778, and its materials trans- 
ported to the western part of the island for military purposes. 
In 1784, anew building was erected, which was supplied with 
the administration of the gospel only part of the time. The 
congregation was generally known in former days by the 
name of Islip, as the church stood near the line of that 
town, and a part of its attendants were from within its 
bounds. The Rev. Luther Gleason preached to this congre- 
gation half the time, during his pastoral relation to the church 
of Smithtown. 

For several years after Mr. Gleason's removal, this church 
was in a very destitute condition, and enjoyed only occasional 
supplies. Mr. Richard S. Siorrs, and others, laboured with 
them a few months, but they had no settled pastor. 

In 1817, Mr. Samuel Weed commenced preaching, with 
acceptance, to this people, and was ordained, (but not in- 
stalled,) May 12th, 1819. Being appointed a Commissioner 
to the General Assembly in 1820, he was taken sick in Phila- 
delphia, and died on the 26th of June, in that city. 

The Rev. Alexander Cummins succeeded for the space of 
3 years, the Rev. Nehemiah B. Cook from 1824 to 1832, and 
the Rev. Ebenezer Piatt for 4 years succeeding. 

In 1838, the congregation disposed of their old house of 
worship, and erected a new one, which is a neat and commo- 
dious building. 

The Rev. Alfred Ketcham commenced preaching here as 
a stated supply, Jan. 1, 1839, and still remains. During his 
ministry, more than 100 persons have been added to the 
church, which now consists of 170 members. 



264 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

A Methodist Episcopal Church was erected in this village 
in 1840. 

Another of a much older date stands within the bounds of 
the town, 5^ miles west, in a settlement called Huntington 
South or West Neck. A new and more spacious edifice is 
now in process of erection by this Society, and will soon be 
completed. 

Summary. — In this township, there are now 18 organized 
religious societies, and the same number of houses of wor- 
ship, viz. : — 4 Presbyterian, 11 Methodist, 1 Baptist, 1 Episco- 
palian, and 1 Universalist. 

QUEEN'S COUNTY. 

Section 10. — Oysterbay. 

Number of acres improved, - - - 34,261 
" " " unimproved, - - - 46,709 
Ratio of population to the acre, 1 to 13, nearly. 

This is the most eastern township in Queen's county, and 
like Brookhaven and Huntington, extends the whole breadth 
of the island, from the Sound on the north, to the ocean on 
the south. It is bounded on the east by Huntington, and on 
the west by the two Hempsteads. It is much wider on the 
north than on the south, extending from Hempstead Harbour 
to Oysterbay, and includes Lloyd's Neck which lies on the 
east of that Bay. 

Several early attempts by the English to effect a settlement 
on this territory were frustrated by the hostility of the Dutch 
government. And it was not till after the treaty of 1650, 
establishing the western line of this town, (which then ex- 
tended but little west of the present village,) as the boundary 
between the Dutch and English jurisdiction, that any of these 
efforts were crowned with success. 

In 1653, a small company of 10 persons, among whom 
was the Rev. William Leverich, principally from Sandwich, 
Massachusetts, made a purchase of the Matinecock Indians, 
and commenced a settlement on the site of the present vil- 
lage. It increased with considerable rapidity, so that in 10 
years there were more than 50 landholders. 

At an early period of the settlement, a municipal govern- 
ment was established, but there is no evidence of any eccle- 
siastical organization till a much later date. It is believed 
that the Rev. Mr. Leverich bestowed a portion of his labours 



SECT. 10.] OYSTERBA.T. 265 

on this infant settlement, though he appears to have devoted 
himself principally to the instruction of the natives till he set- 
tled in Huntington in 1658. 

The early settlers of this town, and indeed of several towns 
in this county, were of a more diversified character than those 
of the other counties. This circumstance no doubt was a 
principal cause of delaying the establishment of religious in- 
stitutions, the lack of which has had a powerful and abiding 
influence on the moral habits and general interest of the com- 
munity. 

The different settlements within the present limits of this 
town,besides the principal village at the Harbour are Glen Cove, 
Buckram, Wolver Hollow, Cedar Swamp, Norwich, Jericho, 
Woodbury, Bethpage, Farmingdal e,and Oysterbay South. Each 
of these will be noticed, as far as they come within the range 
of this work, after giving the annals of the original settlement. 

There are few towns on Long Island whose earlv religious 
history is veiled in greater obscurity than this. For nearly 50 
years from its first settlement, there is not a particle of evi- 
dence of the organization of any religious society, or of the 
stated labours of a religious teacher of any denomination. 

The first religious organization of which we have any 
authentic information, is that of the Baptist persuasion ; and 
in relation to this, there are only a few facts, which have 
been gleaned and kindly furnished by the venerable Marma- 
duke Earle, the present pastor of that church. 

It appears that somewhere about the year 1700, Mr. Wil- 
liam Rhodes, a preacher of that denomination, (but not an or- 
dained minister,) came to this town, having a short tims be- 
fore emigrated from England to Rhode Island. By his 
labours he collected a small number of hearers. But whether 
he was ever ordained, or a church actually organized under 
his ministry, does not appear. His death occurred in 1724, 
about which time it is supposed that the first house of worship 
was erected. This building, which is still standing, is a great 
curiosity. It is about 20 feet square, with 12 feet posts, and 
a pyramidal roof running to a sharp point. Though removed 
to the opposite side of the street and converted into a barn, 
with a ' lean-to? on each side, it still continues to attract the 
notice of every stranger. Its venerable door and square win- 
dows both above and below, still mark it as a building that has 
been prostituted from its original purpose. 

The present church edifice was erected in 1805. 

Among Mr. Rhodes' converts, was an individual by the 
12 



266 ANNALS OP THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

name of Robert Feeks. He was the son of a xruaker preacher 
in this town ; and having early " manifested gifts for the 
ministry," became the assistant, and afterwards the successor 
of \lr. Knodes. He was ordained in 1724 by Elders from 
Rhode Island. He was what is called a " free-will" baptist, 
and "as no other qualification was considered necessary in 
a candidate for baptism, than a desire to be saved, his church 
was of course numerous. His descendants for four genera- 
tions have been members of the church, one of whom is at 
present a Deacon. He laboured many years and died in the 
89th year of his age." 

When he was advanced in life, the Rev. Thomas Davis, a 
native of Pennsylvania came to this town and was employed 
in 1745 as a colleague. " He is said to have been a faith- 
ful and able minister. His sentiments were Calvinistic, and a 
number of the church became so. This difference of senti- 
ment occasioned much strife and unhappiness, and finally laid 
the foundation for another church. Elder Davis, who had 
been very successful in his ministry, being afflicted with 
bodily complaints, returned to his native state, and the church 
was left without a shepherd, except Elder Feeks, whose facul- 
ties were now greatly impaired by age." 

Shortly after, the Lord was pleased to raise up a youth of 
uncommon zeal and great promise — Caleb Wright, the grand- 
son of Elder Rhodes. After preaching about 18 months, 
" not without sorrow, for unruly men gave him much trouble," 
arrangements were made for his ordination. But the day ap- 
pointed for that solemn service proved the day of his burial ; 
and Elder Isaac Still, of I aw Jersey, who had been invited 
for the former service, preached his funeral sermon. This 
painful event took place in November, 1752. 

After this time the church was visited by Elder Davis and 
other ministers ; but all endeavours to restore peace were vain. 
Party spirit arose so high, that each side attempted to hold 
possession of the meeting-house. On one occasion Elder 
Feeks with a number of others entered the house, fastened 
the doors, and he ascended the pulpit. Soon after Elder Davis 
came, and one of his party burst open the door. They all 
entered the house, and Elder D. went into the pulpit. After 
some contention between him and Elder F., he proved victo- 
rious and preached. 

In these unhappy times, in Oct., 1759, a young man from 
New Jersey by the name of David Sutton was sent for, whose 
labours were attended with a blessing, and the church was 



SECT. 10.] OYSTEKBAY. 267 

restored to some degree of unity. But peace was of short 
duration. Some who had been excluded from the church, 
were joined by other disaffected members, and both united in 
forming a new and distinct society, which was known by the 
name of the New Light church. They were visited by the 
separatists or new lights from the eastern part of the island, 
where that spirit had become rife about those days. 

The prominent leaders of that new organization were Peter 
Underbill, the grandson of Capt. John Underhill, whose name 
had become notorious in Massachusetts before he came to 
Long Island ; and Sarah Townsend, generally called Madam 
Townsend. Although the former was designated as the Elder 
of the new church, the latter was manifestly the ruling spirit. 
She was possessed of talents far above mediocrity, and di- 
rected all the concerns of the new association, being a zeal- 
ous advocate for that unrestrained freedom which destroys all 
decorum in divine worship. Some of the peculiar sentiments 
which they adopted were the following, viz. : — 

1. That christians sometimes had such travail of soul for 
the unconverted as to feel assured that God would some time 
or other convert them. They carried this principle so far as 
to say, that a believer might be thus exercised and have this 
assurance, before the unregenerate person was born. 

2. That the saints, at certain times, would have such an 
impulse of mind to speak to individuals, as was not to be dis- 
obeyed without great guilt. This they termed a lead — not 
to be guided by it they considered great unfaithfulness. 

3. That unrestrained liberty should be used by every member 
of the church, whenever he felt a necessity laid upon him to 
speak. " The spirit of the prophets, said they, ' must be sub- 
ject to the prophets ;' and therefore the Preacher must stop 
in his discourse when a more enlightened brother or sister was 
moved to speak !" Such are the interpretations and misap- 
plication of scripture by the spirit of fanaticism. 

Such principles adopted and carried out were productive of 
the wildest disorder and tumult, till some of the most consi- 
derate began to feel the necessity of some restraint. For this 
purpose, about 20 persons drew up a number of articles, cal- 
culated to maintain order in their assemblies, which they pre- 
sented to a meeting of the church. As soon as they were 
read, Madam Townsend arose, and vociferated at the top of 
her voice, Babylon ! Babylon ! Babylon ! and ran out of the 
house followed by her adherents, all uniting in the cry of 



68 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

Babylon, with such tremendous force of lungs, that the cry was 
heard at the distance of 2 miles. 

For a while this church was greatly prospered in its own 
way. It enjoyed what they called a great revival, and large 
numbers were added to its communion; and the regular Bap- 
tist church became well nigh extinct. At least, for the space 
of about 30 years, they had no regular administration. Elder 
Underhill continued to occupy the ground, and both he and 
Madam Townsend, at length, tired of their own irregularities, 
became the friends of order, and united in the re-organization 
of a regular Baptist church. He was. on the whole, esteemed 
a good man, and died June 27th, 1806 in the 69th year of 
his age. 

In 177S, the meeting-house which had been erected by the 
New Lights, was removed by the British towards the harbour, 
and devoted to military use. It was subsequently removed 
over Mill-hill, and converted into a dwelling house. 

On the 2Uth of Nov. 1789, a meeting was held for the pur- 
pose of re-organizing a regular Baptist church. Of this meeting 
Elder Adam Hamilton was Chairman, and Elder Benjamin 
Coles was CJerk. The former had been a British soldier, 
and had now become a Baptist minister. The latter was a 
native of the town, and after having been settled in Connec- 
ticut and New Jersey, returned after the war to his patrimo- 
nial estate at Cedar Swamp. By his instrumentality the 
church was resuscitated, and he continued to labour there for 
several years. In the latter part of his life, the infirmities of 
age, added to a burdensome corpulency, completely disquali- 
fied him for stated ministerial services. He died in Aug. 
1810, at the age of 73. 

The Rev. JWarmaduke Earle, having take charge of the 
Academy in this place, and Mr. Coles being very infirm, 
commenced his labours in this church April 29, 1802. In 
18U5 a revival occurred, in which about ICO members were 
added. Till within 2 years Mr. Earle has pursued the labo- 
rious occupation of both teacher and minister ; and he still 
continues in the service of the church at the advanced age of 
76. The present number of members is about 60. 

An Episcopal church was erected here by the avails of a 
lottery granted for that purpose by the Colonial legislature, 
November 4th, 1754, in which divine service was maintained, 
though not with regularity. This edifice has been rebuilt and 
presents externally a very handsome appearance. The church 



SECT 10.] OYSTERBAY. 

is small, consisting of 1 communicants, and the Rev. Henry 
Harwood is the present rector. 

A Friends meeting-house was erected here at an early 
period, but its date has not been ascertained. As there are 
few of this denomination now in this immediate vicinity, the 
building is at present occupied by a society of coloured 
Methodists belonging to the " Zion" church. 

The origin of Quakerism on Long Island, is one of con- 
siderable interest, especially as many mistakes are current 
in regard to its true date. And as this town was one of the 
earliest in which their peculiar sentiments were promulgated 
and several of the oldest societies exist to this day, this is as 
proper a place as any to examine this subject. 

It will be found in the history of New England, that the 
first Quakers that emigrated to Massachusetts, came in the 
year 1655 — 6. The first that landed in the New Nether- 
lands, came over in 1657. Among these Robert Hodgson, 
a preacher, with several others landed at New Amsterdam. 
Finding their liberty, if not their lives in danger in that 
city, they dispersed, and a part of them withdrew to Long 
Island. Here, in various towns, and in this among others, 
Hodgson promulgated the doctrines and inculcated the prac- 
tices of the new sect, which not a few seemed prepared to 
embrace. The bitter persecution of the Dutch government 
that followed, as is always the case, instead of impeding 
rather advanced the progress of the system. The surrender 
of the province to the English, which occurred in a few years, 
put a stop to the persecution and restored these injured people 
to the enjoyment of the rights of conscience. 

At how early a period, regular meetings were formed and 
houses of worship were erected on this island, the writer has 
been unable to ascertain. He has sought information from 
several of the denomination who were supposed best quali- 
fied to give it, but without success. The earliest erection of 
meeting houses that has been ascertained, was at Jericho 
in this town in 1689, and at Flushing in the following year. 
That in Oysterbay village, previously mentioned, was proba- 
bly one of the oldest, though the date of its erection seems 
to be lost. 

It was in 1672 that George Fox, the founder of the sect, 
visited America. Landing in Maryland, he set out for the 
north — " a tedious journey through woods and wilderness, 
over bogs and great rivers." Coming to Middletown in Jer- 
sey, he says — " They could not stay to hold a meeting there, 



270 ANNALS OP THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

as they were anxious to reach Oysterbay at the half-yearly- 
meeting. Crossing the bay to Gravesend, they spent the 
night there — the next day they went to Flushing ; and on 
the day following they arrived in this place ; the half-year's 
meeting began next day, which lasted four days." 

After spending several days in this vicinity, holding meet- 
ings in different places, he embarked by water for Rhode 
Island, where he attended a yearly or half-yearly meeting of 
six days' continuance. He was treated with hospitality by the 
Governor, and held a meeting in his house. On returning he 
says — " we came to Fisher's Island, where at night, we went 
on shore but were not able**to stay for the moschetoes, a sort of 
gnats or little flies which abound there and are very trouble- 
some." These little marauders appear to have given him the 
greatest annoyance that he met with on his journey. He 
then visited Shelter Island, where he spent more than a week, 
preaching to the white people and also to the Indians, of 
whom he once had an assembly of 100 or more. He then 
returned to Oysterbay, where he arrived on " the 7th of the 
6th month." Returning to Flushing and Gravesend, in both 
of which he held one or more meetings, he re-crossed the bay 
into Jersey on his way back to the south.* 

* Although we have followed Fox off the island, the following extract 
from his journal detailing an occurrence that took place a few days after- 
wards, is worthy of being presented, as illustrative of the sentiments of 
the age, as well as of the claims of the apostle of this new sect. 

" While we were at Shrewsbury an accident befel, which for the time 
was a great exercise to us. John Jay, a friend of Barbadoes, who came 
with us from Rhode Island, and intended to accompany us through the 
woods to Maryland, being to try a horse, got upon his back and 
the horse fell a running, cast him down upon his head and broke his 
neck; as the people said. Those that were near him look him up as 
dead, carried him a good way and laid him on a tree. I got to him as soon 
as I could, and feeling him, concluded he was dead. As I stood pitying 
him and his family, I took hold of his hair and his head turned any way, 
his neck was so limber. Whereupon I took his head in both my hands, 
and setting my knees against the tree, I raised his head and perceived 
there was nothing out or broken that way. Then I put one hand under 
his chin and the other behind his head, and raised his head two or three 
times with all my strength, and brought it in. I soon perceived his neck 
began to grow stiff again, and then he began to rattle in his throat and 
quickly after to breathe. The people were amazed, but I bade them 
have a good heart, be of good faith, and carry him into the house. They 
did so and set him by the fire. I bid them get him something warm to 
drink and put him to bed. After he had been in the house awhile he 
began to speak, but did not know where he had been. The next day we 
passed away, and, he with us, pretty well, about 16 miles, to a meeting 
at Middletown, through woods and bogs, and over a river where we swam 



SECT. 10.] OYSTERBAY. 271 

From this outline of Fox's tour upon the island, it is mani- 
fest that at that period, there must have been several regular 
meetings organized in the western towns, to which this de- 
nomination are still confined. 

Again — Thomas Chalkley, another preacher of this sect, 
who spent more than forty years in alternately preaching 
and trading to the West Indies, in his first visit to Long 
Island in 1698, mentions holding " large meetings" at West- 
bury, Bethpage, Jerusalem and Matinecock ; all of which are 
within this town or its immediate vicinity. And in all these 
places as well as several others, meeting houses exist to the 
present day. These will, of course, be noticed in their re- 
spective towns. 

In 1844, a small but neat Presbyterian edifice was erected 
in this village, and a church was organized the ISth of 
December, consisting of 10 members, set off for that purpose 
from the church in Hempstead. This is the first and only 
church of that denomination within the bounds of this town. 
Though it has enjoyed stated preaching, it is not yet favoured 
with a settled pastor. 

At the head of Coldspring Harbour, about 3 miles east of 
the village and within a few rods of the eastern line of the 
town, an Episcopal church was erected in 1836 by the aid 
of the Trinity church in New-York. The Rev. Isaac Sher- 
wood, who for a number of years divided his labours between 
this church and that at Huntington, is the present rector. 
The congregation is not large, and the church numbers IS 
communicants. 

Buckrum or Buckram (for there are two distinct traditions, 
in regard to the origin of the name, corresponding with the 
diverse orthography) is situated two miles west of the village 
of Oysterbay. Here is a small Methodist Church erected 
within a few years. And about a mile to the South, is a 
Friends' Meeting- House, which bears the name of Matinecock 
Meeting-House, though it is 3 or 4 miles from the Point that 
is known by that name. It is one of the most ancient edifices 

our horses, and got over ourselves upon a hollow tree. Many a hundred 
mile did he travel with us after this." 

Whether this is given as an evidence of surgical skill or of nvraculous 
power, the reader must form his own opinion. In either case, it is suffi- 
ciently remarkable to be preserved, as it is the only instance of setting a 
broken neck to be found, either in the annals of surgery or in the record 
of miracles. 



22 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

of that denomination and has been thoroughly repaired of late 
years. 

Glen Cove (formerly Moscheto Cove,) lies at the head of a 
Creek extending up into a deep valley more than a mile from 
the East shore of Hempstead Harbour. It is a neat little vil- 
lage of a single street, accessible only at its two extremes, be- 
ing hedged in by impassable hills on the North, and by the 
stream and milf ponds on the South. It is a place of very 
considerable water-power, and presents an appearance of 
thrift and business-like importance. The steam-boat landing 
about a mile and a quarter to the west, in full view of the 
head of Long Island Sound, affords daily communication with 
the city, and renders this spot the outlet for the surrounding 
.' ountry. 

An Episcopal Church under the name of" St. Paul's" was 
erected here in 1834, of which the Rev. James P. F. Clark, is 
the present rector, as also of that at Manhasset. 

There is also a Methodist Society, but they have not yet 
erected a house of worship. 

An Academy and also a Female School exist in this village. 

Cedar Swamp is a small settlement about three miles to the 
south-east of Glen Cove. Here is an African Methodist Epis- 
copal Church which contains 70 members. 

Wolver Hollow is about two miles south of Buckram, or 
four miles south-west of Oysterbay village. This settlement 
was originally made in the latter part of the 17th cen- 
tury, by the Dutch, as this part of the town fell within their 
jurisdiction, by the treaty of Hartford. A Dutch church was 
organized here sometime after ; but its date has not been pre- 
cisely ascertained. No house of worship was erected till 1732. 
The one that was then built was in the orthodox form, a re- 
gular octagon with a corresponding roof. The present church 
was erected in 1832. 

Till after the commencement of the present century, this 
congregation was a part of the collegiate charge of Queen's 
County. 

The Rev. David S. Bogart was installed pastor of this 
church (afterwards in connexion with that in North Hemp- 
stead,) on the first Sabbath of Sept. 1813. He was dismissed 
April 1 1th, 1^26, and died in New- York July 10th 1839. 

The Rev. Henry Hermance was ordained Sept. 10th, 1826, 
and dismissed August 28th, 1827. 

The Rev. James Olterson was installed the 3rd Sabbath in 
May 1823, and dismissed Dec. 1st 1834. 



SECT. 10.] OYSTEBBAY. 273 

The connexion between this congregation and that of 
North Hempstead, was dissolved Aug. 4th, 1835, and on the 
5th of Oct. following, the Rev. Robert A. Quia was installed 
pastor of this church. He was dismissed Oct. 11th, 1841. 

The Rev. Thomas B. Gregory, was installed in May 1842. 
He has since been dismissed, and the Rev. P. D. Oakey is the 
present pastor. 

Norwich is a small village about two miles south of Oyster- 
bav. A Methodist Episcopal Church was erected here in 
18^5. 

Jericho is situated six miles south of Oysterbay, near the 
north-east corner of the Great Plain, on the Jericho Turnpike. 
It was settled at an early period, principally by Friends, and 
that is the only denomination that have a house of worship 
there. The Quaker meeting-house, as before stated, was 
erected in 1689. The present building is spacious and was 
reared after the revolution. 

This little settlement has obtained celebrity as having been 
the residence of Elias Hicks, who acquired immortality, by 
the great schism which his peculiar views occasioned, in that 
once peaceful and singularly united denomination. A brief 
notice of the man — his sentiments, and the contentions and 
final separation which they occasioned will be in place. 

Elias Hicks, was horn within the limits of the present town 
of North Hempstead, March 19th 1748. Though he enjoyed 
very limited means of education in early life, and was brought 
up to the laborious occupation of a carpenter, he was confess- 
edly, a man of strong powers of mind ; and soon became a 
distinguished member of this denomination. He settled in 
early life at Jericho, where he continued to reside till his de- 
cease. Having become a preacher, he was extremely popular, 
both at home and abroad. He travelled first through the 
island, and held one or more meetings in most of the towns. 
At subsequent periods, he journeyed through most of the 
United States, and into Canada. His official journeys have 
been estimated, in the aggregate at 10,000 miles ; and his 
public discourses on those missions at 1,010. 

It was not till an advanced period of his life, that serious 
suspicions began to be excited, that the doctrines he taught, 
were not in strict accordance with the views of the founders 
of Quakerism. The apprehension, however, at first conlined 
to a few minds, gradually gained ground, till it gave rise to 
spirited discussion, and eventually to fierce contention ; and 
in some instances, to tumultuous proceedings. The extensive 

12* 



274 ANNALS OP THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

acquaintance and great personal influence of this celebrated 
man caused these discussions to become general throughout 
the country : and a disposition to try the strength, and deter- 
mine the members of the respective parties, was manifested in 
every part of the land. This introduced a new order of things 
into the meetings, and led to measures hitherto unknown to 
this denomination. Instead of calm, cool deliberations, in 
which every measure was settled by general consent, without 
the formality of a vote ; now, each party was found striving 
for the mastery, and every question was contested, and finally 
settled, by a stern and uncompromising majority. In nume- 
rous instances, the weaker party was excluded from the pre- 
mises, and doors were locked and barred against their intrusion. 
This state of things necessarily laid the foundation for much 
litigation, and in several States, protracted and expensive law- 
suits were resorted to, to determine who were the rightful 
possessors of the public property, and consequently, which 
party had the claim to the title of true and genuine Friends. 
In some instances, these disputes were settled by a compro- 
mise between the parties. But in both cases, a complete di- 
vision has been the result, and the two parties form distinct so- 
cieties, each claiming the original appellation, distinguished 
in common parlance, by the names Hicksites and Orthodox. 

This separation has taken place in several societies on 
Long Island, but here the Hicksite party is by far the most* 
numerous. Taking the state of New York at large, they are 
about equally divided ; but the Orthodox are in the majority 
in the United States. Actual separation took place in the 
yearly meetings of New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Ohio, 
and Indiana. No schism was made in Virginia and North 
Carolina, and only a few individuals seceded in New Eng- 
land. The yearly meetings of London and Dublin keep up 
their usual intercourse and correspondence with the Orthodox, 
but have no communication with the other section. 

This division, which was consummated about the year 
1827, has laid the foundation for the existence of two distinct 
denominations, both retaining the dress, the language, and the 
forms of the disciples of George Fox, but differing materially 
in their theological sentiments. The Orthodox assign, as the 
cause of the division, " certain opinions promulgated by Elias 
Hicks, denying or invalidating the miraculous conception, di- 
vinity and atonement of our Lord Jesus Christ, and also the 
authenticity and divine authority of the Holy Scriptures. 
These, with some other sentiments, were so entirely repug- 



SECT. 10.] OYSTEBBAY. 275 

nant to the acknowledged and settled principles of the society 
that endeavours were used to prevent the promulgation of 
them." 

Of the truth or falsehood of these allegations, it is impos- 
sible to obtain any evidence from the Journal of Elias Hicks, 
published since his death, as that work is strangely silent on 
all those disputed topics. He often records the fact that he 
met with strong opposition, and was sometimes denied admit- 
tance into the Friends' meeting-houses ; but the reason does 
not appear. And while, on other occasions, he tells us that 
he " had strength and utterance to open many important doc- 
trines of the Christian religion, in a clear and impressive man- 
ner," by which many of the hearers " were tendered and con- 
trited" not the least intimation is given what those doctrines 
were. 

It is due to the memory of Elias Hicks to say, that there is 
a letter extant, written by him only a few months before his 
death, in answer to six queries propounded by a "Friend," in 
which he declares his belief of the miraculous conception and 
divinity of Jesus Christ, the use and excellency of the Scrip- 
tures, the doctrine of human accountability, and a future state 
of rewards and punishments. It is a matter of gratification, 
if he was led deliberately to adopt correct views on these im- 
portant points, before he was summoned to his final account ; 
but it is manifest, from his letters and public discourses, that, 
for many years preceding, his sentiments on those topics were 
of a vastly different character. As early as 1821, he declared, 
in his letter to Thomas Willis in regard to the miraculous 
conception of Jesus Christ, that he thought " there was con- 
siderable more evidence for his being the son of Joseph than 
otherwise." And in regard to these two opposite sentiments, 
he adds, *' I conceive, in regard to our salvation, they are both 
non-essentials : and I may further say, I believe it would be 
a much greater sin in me to smoke tobacco, that was the pro- 
duce of the labour of slaves, than it would be to believe either 
of these positions." And it certainly will not be disputed 
that, in his subsequent discourses delivered in different parts 
of the land, as well as in colloquial discourse, he frequently 
and unreservedly declared his opinion, that " Jesus Christ was 
a mere man, begotten and brought forth as other men, and 
undoubtedly was the son of Joseph." On the general subject 
of Christ's divinity, the inspiration of the Scriptures, and other 
kindred subjects, it is well known that he promulgated senti- 
ments vastly different from those expressed in his last letter. 



276 ANNALS OP THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

A man has a perfect right to change his sentiments, even at 
the close of life ; and it is no disparagement to his character 
to acknowledge his errors, when convinced of them ; bat such 
change, however complete, cannot nullify the fact that he 
had previously entertained and advocated views of an opposite 
character. 

There are now, within the counties of King's and Queen's, 
12 meeting-houses belonging to the general denomination of 
Friends. In only two places, viz., Flushing and Westbury, 
have they actually erected separate houses of worship. In 
both of these, the Orthodox society is small, and the houses 
which they have erected, of corresponding dimensions. 

All the Hicksite Friends oi. Long Island are included under 
3 monthly meetings, except the society in Brooklyn, which 
holds its connexion in the city of New York. The Orthodox 
are all included in a single monthly meeting. 

Woodbury is a scattered vicinage, a little to the east of Jeri- 
cho, extending to the eastern line of the town. It lies on the 
continuation of the Jericho turnpike, through the West Hills to 
Smithtown. In the eastern part of this settlement, which has 
long borne the name of " East Woods,'" an Episcopal church 
was erected in 17^7, which bore the name of St. Peter. It 
was seldom used for religious purposes, and in the course ~ c a 
few years was burned down. The site has long been occu- 
pied by a temple of Bacchus. 

Hicksville, although unknown in the ecclesiastical annals 
of the island, ought probably to receive some notice as we 
pass by it. It is a "village" of recent origin, situated on the 
western line of the town, about midway of the great plain. It 
owes its existence to the temporary termination of the Long 
Island rail-road at this point. It originally consisted of a 
large depot and work-shops, a hotel with its out-houses, and 
5 or 6 small private dwellings. The rail-road having been 
extended to Greenport in 1844, the depot being burned down 
about the same time, and no addition whatever being made to 
the private dwellings, the " village" bids fair to remain in statu 
quo. Its business, however, is undiminished, as it is a point 
at which several stages and private conveyances arrive daily, 
with passengers from the adjacent villages ; and after remain- 
ing an hour or two, depart with their return cargoes. Of 
course, its principal trade consists of hay and oats for horses, 
and cakes and pies, and coffee or whiskey, for men — all of 
which are articles of foreign production, as there is no land 
under cultivation. Indeed, all the houses stand " out of doors," 



SECT. 10.] OYSTEEBAY. 277 

without any enclosure, except a small garden attached to the 
hotel. And although the whole territory is as level as a barn- 
floor, and building-lots can be purchased far cheaper than in 
New York, the public seem determined not to buy them. It 
has been said that, 4i by spirit and enterprise, it would become 
a very desirable and eligible spot for such mechanical branches 
as do not require the aid of steam or water power ;" but as all 
mechanics stand in need of a little water to drink and for culi- 
nary purposes, and as Hicksville is the most elevated point on 
the whole line of the rail-road, being, according to the state- 
ment of the engineer, 142 feet above tide- water, it does not 
seem likely to be selected as a place of residence by any man 
in his senses. On the whole, Long Island does not furnish, 
in all its length and breadth, a stronger instance of the folly 
of attempting to rear cities and villages on the hot-bed princi- 
ple. East New York and Jamesport are privileged spots com- 
pared with Hicksville. The name ma)' live, but the " village" 
is a miserable abortion. 

Bethpage is another ancient Quaker village, about 4 miles 
south-east of Hicksville, near the line of the rail road. It is 
impossible to ascertain at what date the Friends' meeting- 
house was erected here; but there is reason to believe that it 
was coeval with those of Flushing, Matinecock, and West- 
bury. The writer has recently conversed with an old gentle- 
man who was born and spent a life of more than fourscore 
years in that vicinity, who stated that this house appeared to 
him an old building when he was a boy. It was rebuilt, or 
materially repaired, after the Revolutionary War. 

Farmingdale, (formerly Hard-scrabble,) is about one mile 
east of Bethpage, and near the line of Huntington. The 
change of names is doubtless one of the improvements pro- 
duced on the island, by the construction of the rail road. And 
it seems a little remarkable that two places of such uncouth 
appellations as Hard-scrabble and Punk's- hole, should have 
been so situated as to become the only two stopping-places of 
the Boston train, with its hundreds of passengers every day. 
And yet this is the fact. Farmingdale is near the 32d mile stone, 
and Brooktield 66 miles from Brooklyn, or 29 from Green- 
port. 

A small Methodist Episcopal Church was erected here in 
1843, which, together with a store and tavern, and a few pri- 
vate dwellings recently erected, constitute the " village." 

Oysterbay South, is a continuous line of dwellings on the 
south road, of about 3 miles, which is the breadth of the town 



278 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

on this side of the island. Not far from the centre of this 
population, a neat Episcopal church was erected in 1844 ; but 
stated worship has not yet been established. 

In the western part of this settlement, near the western line 
of the town, is the residence of Thomas F. Jones, Esq., whose 
plantation includes Fort Neck, with its Indian fortifications, 
which were briefly described in Part I. Among the numerous 
streams which water this part of the island, is the Massapequa 
Brook,* running through Mr. Jones' farm, upon which he 
has raised, at a great expense, a beautiful fish-pond, some 60 
acres in its area, which is well stocked with trout. Near the 
centre of the pond is a small island, which its enterprising 
proprietor has provided with shade-trees and seats, affording 
a most delightful retreat in a hot summer's day. There is 
an air of neatness, beauty and comfort about this place that 
is exceeded by few, if any, country residence on the island. 

Plain Edge, or Turkeyville, is a settlement lying partly 
in Oysterbay, and partly in Hempstead, between 3 and 4 
miles from the south road, and about the same distance south 
of Hicksville. It is a considerable settlement, somewhat 
scattered, and has two churches, one within the limits of each 
town. Either of the above names is sufficiently distinctive. 
The village is situated just on the verge of the Great Plain, 
whence its ancient name originated. And while the land is 
excellent, and, in general, well cultivated, the inhabitants ex- 
cel in the art of raising turkeys. In passing through this vi- 
cinity, you behold immense flocks of these fowls, spreading 
over the fields, and often extending their stroll out upon the 
plain. Thousands of these are annually raised in this vicini- 
ty ; and on that account, the very appropriate name was ap- 
plied to it, by one of the oldest inhabitants. 

The Methodist Episcopal Church in this settlement, stands 
within the town of Oysterbay. The other, situated on the 
turnpike leading from Hempstead, through Farmingdale to 
Babylon, was built some years ago by the " Methodist Socie- 
ty," or the Protestant Methodists. It was in a flourishing con- 
dition till the " Midnight Cry " was sounded in this retired 

* The name of this brook is an obvious memorial of the Marsapeague 
tribe, who formerly occupied this territory. It is said that the import of 
the name has been recently ascertained, and is supposed to have origin, 
ated from the exclamation of some child of the forest, who, after slaking 
his thirst in the purling stream, arose from his hands and knees with this 
expression : — Massapequa — " / have drunk enough, and more than 
enough." 



SECT. 11.] HEMPSTEAD. 279 

region. And when the providence of God had illustrated its 
falsehood, the society dispersed, and for several months the 
house has remained unoccupied. 

Summary. — In this town are 17 houses of worship, viz : — 
7 Methodist, 4 Friends, 3 Episcopalians, 1 Presbyterian, 1 
Baptist, and 1 Reformed Dutch. 



Section 11.— HEMPSTEAD. 

Number of acres improved, . . . 29,501 

" " unimproved, . . . 42,499 

Ratio of population to the acre, 1 to 8$ nearly. 

This township originally extended from the Sound to the 
ocean. But by an act of the Legislature, passed April 6th, 
1784, it was divided by a line running near the middle of the 
Great Plain, into two towns. It is now bounded on the north 
by North Hempstead, east by Oysterbay, south by the ocean, 
and west by Jamaica. This section was first called " South 
Hempstead," but the prefix was afterwards rejected. 

The first settlers of this town were English emigrants, who 
had temporarily resided at different places in New England, 
and last at Stamford, Ct. They sent over agents in 1643, 
who made a purchase of the natives. A small company came 
over and commenced the settlement in the Spring of the 
following year ; and a patent dated Nov. 16th, 1644, was ob- 
tained from the Dutch governor, which gave them " full 
power and authority to build a town or towns, with fortifica- 
tions — a temple or temples, to use and exercise the reformed 
religion, which they profess, with the discipline thereunto 
belonging, to erect a body politic or civil combination among 
themselves, and to nominate certain magistrates,"' subject to 
the approval of the governor ; M with full power to said mag- 
istrates to call a court or courts, as often as they shall see ex- 
pedient, and to hold pleas in all cases civil and criminal." In 
3 years from this time there were more than 60 land- holders ; 
and in 1685, the number of taxable inhabitants was 160. 

It is evident that the first settlers of this town were men of 
character and piety. Whether they came to the island in a 
duly organized church relation, does not appear, but their 
minister formed one of the first company, and the regular 
establishment of divine institutions appears to have been one 
of the first objects that engaged their attention. And they 
seem to have gone further, and approximated nearer to the 



280 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PAUT 2, 

rigid rules of Connecticut, in requiring a general attendance 
on public worship, than any other town on the island. In 
1650, an order was passed in their general court, imposing 
a fine, which was to b3 doubled for each successive oH'ence, 
upon every person who, " without just and necessary cause," 
should neglect to attend "public meetings on the Lord's day, 
and public days of fasting and thanksgiving, both forenoon 
and afternoon.''' 1 If such a rule, waiving the pecuniary penalty, 
were only made a condition of church membership, it is to be 
apprehended that many of the churches of the present day 
would be reduced to a very small number. 

The original settlement, which is the principal village in 
the town, is situated on the south side of the plain, 3 miles 
from the main line of the railroad, a branch of which extends 
to the village. It contains about 200 dwellings, and includes 
nearly one fifth of the whole population of the town. 

Besides this, there are several other settlements of more or 
less consequence, viz. : — Fosters Meadow, Far Rockaway, 
JSear Rockaway, Hick's Neck, Raynor South, Merick, New- 
bridge or Hempstead South, Jerusalem, and Plain Edge or 
Turkey mile. 

The whole of this town, though remarkably level, and lying 
directly south of the Great Plain, is as remarkably well- 
watered. There are 8 or 9 streams, some of them affording 
a sufficient supply of water for several mills and factories of 
various kinds ; and what is very remarkable, several of these 
take their rise along the south part of the Great Plain ; and 
some of them, at their heads, furnish abundant evidence, that 
in former days, they proceeded from nearly the middle of the 
Plain. 

Churches, &c. 

The first house of worship, 24 feet square, was erected in 
1645, but not completed till 2 or 3 years afterwards. In 1660 
it underwent some considerable repairs. 

In 1679, anew church, 34 by 24 feet, with 12 feet posts, 
was erected, and the old one disposed of at public auction. 

This church was enlarged in 1700, only a few years be- 
fore the congregation was deprived of it by the introduction 
of episcopacy, as will be more particularly noticed in the 
sequel. 

The Presbyterian, or Independent congregation, as they 
were indifferently called, being deprived of their house of 
worship, accommodated themselves as they could, for a num- 



SECT. 11.] IIESirSTEAD. 281 

ber of years ; till somewhere about the years 1716 — 18, 
they erected a small house near the pond, in the western part 
of the village. 

In 1762 — 4, they erected the fourth edifice, which they 
enjoyed the use of till it was taken possession of by the Brit- 
ish, in the Revolutionary War, and converted into a store- 
house. In 1784, this building was repaired, but was unfor- 
tunately burned down in 1603. 

In the following year, the present building was erected, 
and enlarged in 1825, which the increased congregation are 
contemplating to replace with a new and larger edifice. 

The first Episcopal Church reared by that denomination in 
this village, was built in 1734, on the same site with the for- 
mer, which they had taken possession of 30 years before. 

In 1*22, the present church was erected, and consecrated 
Sept. 19th, 1823. 

A Methodist Episcopal Church was built in 1822, and has 
since been enlarged. 

The Hempstead Seminary, a noble and elegant edifice, 60 
by 40 feet, was erected in 1836. 

Ministers. 

The name of the Rev. Richard Denton is identified with 
the first settlement of this town. He came over with the 
first company, in 1614, and continued their pastor till 1659. 
He then returned to England, where he died in 1602, at the 
age of 76. 

In 1680, the Rev. Jonas Fordham became the pastor of 
this church. How long he continued is not ascertained, but 
probably till within a short time of the settlement of his suc- 
cessor. He is the same individual who was afterwards em- 
ployed for a few years at Brookhaven, where he has been 
previously noticed. 

The Rev. Jeremiah Hobart was settled here in 16S3. He 
remained some years, but the precise time of his removal is 
not known. It appears that his salary was so reluctantly paid, 
that he was obliged to apply to the Court for relief, and in 
1690, it was ordered to be raised by a tax. This probahly in- 
creased the dissatisfaction, and led to his speedy removal. It 
has been supposed that he was afterwards minister at Jamaica, 
where his name is written Jeremiah HubberU Though the 
Records of Jamaica show that proposals were made for the 
employment of a minister of that name, it does not appear 



282 ANNALS OP THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

that he ever accepted them. Mr. Hobart removed, near the 
close of the century, to Connecticut, where he died in 1717, 
at the advanced age of 87 years. 

Who was his immediate successor is not known ; nor have 
we any authentic accounts of a settled ministry in this town 
for a great number of years. In the beginning of the next 
century, the severe oppressions of this congregation com- 
menced ; and the people being disheartened and divided, a 
few being gained over to " the church," and more being driven 
into quakerism, so that the Presbyterian church was probably 
destitute of a regularly settled pastor the greater part of the 
time, through an entire century. That they were not entire- 
ly destitute of preaching, during all that scene of troubles, 
may be inferred from the letter of the Rev. Mr. Jenny, the 
church-missionary, in which he says, under date of June 27th, 
1728. " The body of the Presbyterians live here in the town 
spot, but they are so poor and few, that it is with difficulty 
they can maintain their minister, and we daily expect he will 
leave them.'" This was almost 25 years after they had been 
deprived of their church and other property ; and yet they con- 
tinued to maintain divine institutions, according to their views 
of gospel order. But who their minister was at this period 
is unknown. 

At a later date, the Rev. Benjamin Woolsey supplied this 
congregation half the time for a number of years. He left 
Southold and removed to his wife's inheritance in the north- 
west part of Oysterbay, which he named Dosoris, {the wife's 
■portion or dowry) in 1736, and he lived till 1756. It is sup- 
posed, that the latter years of his life were devoted to this peo- 
ple.* 

During a large portion of the time that the Rev. Joshua 
Hart was settled at Smithtown, he divided his time with this 
congregation. His labours were much interrupted in both 
places, during the war ; but for many years after the return 
of peace, he preached more or less to this people. 

Immediately after the close of the revolutionary war, mea- 
sures were adopted to gather the church, which had been very 
much dispersed. The Rev. Mr. Burnett, of Jamaica, ad- 

* There is a fact handed down by tradition, that attests the punctuali- 
ty of this good man to his engagements, and his unwillingness to disap- 
point the expectations of the congregation. During his engagement here, 
he lost a son, whose death took place on a Saturday preceding his turn 
to preach at Hempstead. Being unable to procure any person to supply 
his place, he felt it to be his duty to leave his afflicted family, which he 
did, and performed his usual services on the sabbath day. 



SECT. 11.] HEMPSTEAD. 283 

ministered the Lord's Supper, and there were only 10 members 
present. From this time, Messrs. Keltletas, Davenport, Hart, 
and others, preached here more or less, but there was no set- 
tled pastor till after the commencement of the present cen- 
tury. 

June 5th, 1805, the Rev. William P. Kuypers was install- 
ed pastor by the Presbytery of Long Island. He was dis- 
missed June 12th, 1811. At this date, the church consisted 
of only 23 members. 

In 1812, Mr. Samuel Robertson commenced his labours in 
this place. In 1816, having been ordained collegiate pastor 
of the church in Huntington, he divided his time between the 
two places. In the following year, being left sole pastor of 
that church, he ceased to labour with this people. 

The Rev. Charles Webster was ordained here, March 16th, 
1818, having commenced his labours sometime previous. He 
remained in this charge till April 18th, 1837 : when he was 
dismissed, and removed into Pennsylvania. During his in- 
cumbency, his labours appear to have been greatly blessed, in 
" strengthening the things which remained and were ready to 
die." The church was gradually increased, till it amounted 
to 150 members. 

The Rev. Sylvester Woodbridge, Junr. the present pastor, 
was called from Westhampton, and installed Jan. 16th, 1838, 
The church has continued to increase, and is now in a more 
prosperous condition, than at any former period. 

The following dates, with the number of communicants 
under each, will show the resuscitation and gradual increase of 
this ancient church, which was " scattered and peeled," op- 
pressed and down-trodden, during one entire century. 

1811 '17 '20 '28 '32 '37 '45 

23 57 75 96 131 150 220 

The Episcopal Church. 

In regard to the introduction of episcopacy into this town, 
the following extract from a historical note prefixed to the Rev. 
Selh Hart's sermon, delivered Sept. 21st, 1823, being the first 
sabbath after the consecration of the present Episcopal church 
in this village, is in point. 

" The oldest register of the parish of Hempstead, kept in 
the church, begins in year the 1725, when the Rev. Thomas 
Jenny was missionary there, from the society in England, for 
propagating the Gospel in Foreign Parts. But tradition in- 



284 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

forms, that the Rev. Mr. Thomas had previously been a mis- 
sionary to the same parish. Divine service had been perform- 
ed in a building, which had been formerly erected, by the in- 
habitants of said town, for gospel uses, but which was then in 
a state of decay. In 1734, the building of a new church was 
commenced, and finished in that or the following year ; and 
a royal charter obtained in the year 1735, whereby all the 
freeholders and inhabitants of the said town who were in 
communion with the church of England, were incorporated 
and constituted a parish by the style and title of '* St. George's 
Church, Hempstead," then extending across the island — and 
whereby also was granted to them, the church then built, to- 
gether with one half acre of the common land whereon it 
stood ; and also about three acres and a half of land, where- 
on the parsonage house then stood, and on which the present 
parsonage house, which was built by the voluntary contribu- 
tions of the parishioners, in the year 1793, now stands." 

This is a concise statement of the facts of the case, but 
some further detail is important. 

" The Society for propagating the Gospel in Foreign Parts," 
which was chartered by King William, in 1701, sent out two 
missionaries, the following year to labour in the colonies. 
One of these was stationed at Jamaica, under circumstances 
that will be noticed in the annals of that town. In 1714, the 
Rev. John Thomas was sent to this village, it has been said, 
in compliance with the wishes of the people. But the testi- 
mony of the missionary seems to give a different view of the 
subject. Aided, however, by the authority of the Governor, 
the infamous Cornbury, he took possession of the church and 
parsonage, and commenced the performance of religious ser- 
vice, according to the ritual of the church of England. With 
what acceptance among the people, his own letters will tell.* 

Under date of March 1st, 1705, he says, "After much 
trial and fatigue, I am, through God's assistance, safely arriv- 
ed, and have been two months settled at Hempstead, where 
I met with civil reception from the people. They are gene- 
rally Independents or Presbyterians, and have hitherto been 
supplied, ever since the settlement of the town, with a dissent- 
ing ministry. The country is exceedingly attached to a dis- 

* The writer was promised copies of these letters as taken from the 
original ones in England ; but failing to obtain them in time, the follow- 
ing extracts arc taken from Thompson's History, which has been some 
time before the public, without being disputed. It is presumed they are 
authentic. 



6ECT. 11.] HEMPSTEAD. 285 

senting ministry ; and were it not for his Excellency, my Lord 
Cornbury's most favourable countenance to us, we might ex- 
pect the severest entertainment here, that dissenting malice, 
and the rigour of prejudice could afflict us with." 

Again, " I have scarcely a man in the parish steady and 
real, to the interest and promotion of the church, any farther 
than they aim at the favour, or dread the displeasure, of his 
lordship. This is the face of affairs here, according to the 
best observation I could make, in the short time I have lived 
here."' 

Again, June 25th, he writes, " The people are all stiff dis- 
senters ; not above three church-people in the whole parish ; 
all of them the rebellious offspring of '42. Brother Urquhart 
and myself, belong to one county, and the only English min- 
isters on the island." " If it had not been for the counten- 
ance and support of Lord Cornbury, and his government, it 
would have been impossible to have settled a church on the 
island." 

At a still later period, his own account of his prospects ap- 
pear not much brighter. In 1717 he writes : "I have been 
a considerable time in these parts, rowing against wind and 
tide, first in Pennsylvania, against thequakers, and here about 
12 years against rigid independents. 1 have always observed 
that the > pious fraud, of a caressing and well modeled hospi- 
tality, has captivated and inclined their affections more pow- 
erfully than the best digested discourses out of the pulpit. 

In 1722, he writes : " My last summer's sickness has pro- 
duced a small dissenting meeting-house in one part of my 
parish ; but I thank God, it is only the scum that is concern- 
ed in it ; the people of figure and substance, are entirely of 
the church-side."* 

These extracts are sufficient to show how averse the people 
were to the introduction of episcopacy, even after this devoted 
missionary had laboured here many years. 

Mr. Thomas died in 1724, and was succeeded by the Rev. 
Robert Jenny, D.D., from Rye, in the following year. Under 
date of June 27th, 1728, he writes thus : — 

" The church's right to all this, (the church property) is 
hotly disputed, and I am often threatened with an ejectment ; 
first, by the heirs of one Ogden, from whom the purchase was 

* The meeting-house here alluded to, is probably the one erected near 
the pond, the date of which has been given at 171U-18. The true time of 
its erection may be as 6tated by Mr. Thomas. 



286 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART, 2, 

made ; secondly, by the Presbyterians, who plead from the 
purchase having been made by them, before any church was 
settled here, and from their minister having been long in pos- 
session of it, that it belongs to them ; thirdly, by the makers, 
who are a great body of the people, and argue that it belongs to 
them, and ought to be hired out, from time to time, as the ma- 
jor part of the freeholders can agree. The body of the Pres- 
byterians live here, in the town spot ; but they are so poor and 
few, that it is with difficulty they can maintain their minister, 
and we daily expect he will leave them." 

In 1734, a new church was erected by the church-party, as 
previously stated ; and upon the occasion of its consecration, 
Gov. Cosby attended, with a number of the state officers, who 
made numerous presents of great value. But the most valu- 
able favour conferred, was his Majesty's Royal Charter of In- 
corporation, wit ; ^e name of " The Rector and inhabitants 
of the Parish of Hempstead, in Queen's County, on Long 
Island, in communion with the Church of England, as by law 
established." This was doubtless designed, as it had the effect, 
to end the controversy with the poor Presbyterians, or Inde- 
pendents ; and the cause stands adjourned for a final hearing 
and decision, at the grand Assizes of the universe. 

In 1742, Dr. Jenny removed to Philadelphia, where he died 
Oct. 17th, 1745, at the age of 69. 

The Rev. Samuel Seabury succeeded in 1742 or '3 ; and 
died here, June 15th, 1764, aged 58. 

The Rev. Leonard Cutting was rector of this church from 
1766 to 1784, when he removed to the South. 

The Rev. Thomas L. Moore succeeded in March, 1785, 
and died here Feb. 20th, 1799. 

The Rev. John H. Hobart, D.D., succeeded June 1st, 
1800, but was called in Dec. following, to Trinity Church, in 
New York, where he was afterwards elected assistant-bishop 
of the diocese, and in 1811, upon the death of Dr. Moore, 
succeeded to the episcopate. He died at Auburn while on his 
annual visitation, Sept. 12th, 1830. 

The Rev. Seth Hart succeeded in 1801, and remained till 
1829, when he resigned on account of infirmity. 

The Rev. Richard D. Hall was rector from 1829, to 1834, 
when he removed to Philadelphia. 

The Rev. William M. Carmichael, D. D., succeeded in 
1834, and remained till 1843. 

The Rev. O. Harriman is the present rector. 



8ECT. 11.] HEMPSTEAD. 287 

Foster's Meadow is a small settlement 3 or 4 miles to the 
west and south of Hempstead village. This part of the town 
was settled at an early period, and constituted a part of the 
old congregation. But a few years before the revolution, the 
people hereabouts, erected a Presbyterian church, which was 
taken down by the British, in the time of the war, and remov- 
ed to Jamaica, for the construction of barracks, where it was 
subsequently destroyed. 

A methodist church was erected here in 1836. 

Far Rockaway is a somewhat celebrated watering place, 
lying in the south-west corner of the town, on the east side of 
Jamaica Bay. The Marine Pavilion, erected in 1833, is a 
large edifice, more than 201) feet in length, with two wings of 
75 and 45 feet respectively, for the accommodation of com- 
pany. It is situated near the beach, in full view of the ocean, 
and furnishes every convenience for these who are in pursuit 
of health or comfort during the heat of summer. There are 
a few contiguous houses, where the invalid may enjoy more 
retired quarters, with equal privileges of ocean air, and sea 
bathing. 

About a mile and a half to the north-east of the Pavilion, 
is a Methodist E. Church erected some 15 years ago. And 
at about the same distance still farther on, towards Near 
Rockaway, is an Episcopal Chapel, erected in 1836, in which 
the Rev. Dr. Carmichael of Hempstead officiated occasionally, 
for several years. The Rev. John C. Smith is the present 
rector. 

Near Rockaway is about 5 miles south of Hempstead village 
on Parsonage Creek, which discharges into the head of Hemp- 
stead Bay. It was formerly called Clink-town, from the name 
of an Indian chief, who resided here, and the frame of his 
house, it is said, still remains, constituting a part of the old 
tavern that stands near the church. 

The Methodist Church was erected here in 1790, and was 
probably the third house of worship built by that denomination 
on the island. It was repaired, or nearly rebuilt, about 20 
years ago. The burying ground attached to this church has 
been rendered an object of peculiar interest, by becoming the 
depository of the dead from the ill-fated ships Bristol and 
Mexico. One hundred and thirty-nine bodies lie buried here, 
in two extended rows ; at the south end of which, a small 
but neat monument, about 4 feet square at the base and 12 
feet high, of white marble, has been erected, which bears on 



288 ANTCALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

its several sides the following inscriptions, copied verbatim et 
literatim : — 

(On the South side.) 

To the memory of 77 

Persons chiefly Emigrants 

From England & Ireland, 

being the only remains of 

100 souls composing the 

Passengers and crew of 

the American ship Bristol 

Capt. McKown wrecked on 

far-Rockavvav beach, 

Nov. 21. 1836. 

The inhabitants of the County 

impelled by A generous sensibillity 

have Purchased thirty feet front and rear 

by One hundred and Sixty one feet deep 

of this yard and set it apart exclusively 

as a Marriners Burying ground. 

(On the West side.) 

All the bodies of the 

Bristol and Mexico 

recovered from the Ocean 

and decently interred 

near this spot ; 

were followed to the grave 

by a large concourse of 

Citizens and Strangers 

and an address delivered 

suited to the occasion 

from these words, 

Lord save us, we perish, 

Matth. 8. 25. v. 

(On the North side.) 

To the memory of 

Sixty-two persons chiefly 

Emigrants from England 

and Ireland ; being the only 

remains of 115 souls 

forming the passengers 






SECT. 11.] HEMPSTEAD. 289 

and crew of the American 

Barque Mexico, 

Capt. Winslow, wrecked 

on Hempstead beach 

Jan. 2. 1837. 

(On the East side.) 

To commemorate the 
melancholy fate of the 

unfortunate sufferers 

belonging to the Bristol 

and Mexico, this monument 

was erected; partly by the 

money found upon their 

persons, and partly by the 

Contributions of the 

benevolent and humane 

> in the County of Queen's. 

On the base, upon the North side, the foHowin* W- r 
worse than doggerel poetry are inscribed ,J m0WW S •"■ of 

In this prove, from the wide ocean doth sleep, 
Thr bodies of those that had crossed the deep 
And instead of being landed, safe on the shore, 
In a cold frosty night, they all were no more. 

rn^nf ave > ard f.^ound with similar examples of bad fi ram. 
mar and contemptible trash, called poetry— 8 

" Enouorh to rouse a dead man into rage 
And warm with red resentment the wan cheek ;" 
but surely public monuments ought to be preserved from such 

ltr° e ^ f Ud u hlle thG P e0 ^ Je of *«"n'8 County deserve 
much credit, for the sympathy and generosity displayed ! on 

rcgiet, that these several inscriptions were prepared and Pn 
graved with so little regard to accuracy and Lie t he In" 
correct spelling, the improper use of capitals, and the i Idi' 
cious arrangement of the various inscriptions were the Suite 
of an ignorant stone-cutter, the monument ought never to 

*e Ve woT iK? th ° Se Wh ° had thG -Penftenden" f 
thewo.k. Such obvious inaccuracies will be yarded bv 
ordinary visitors, and especially by foreigners, as mCments 
of the ignorance of the country where they exist. And no 
man can be censured for drawing the inference, however un- 



290 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PAHT 2, 

founded it may be in this and other cases, that where such an 
expense is incurred, those who superintended the work, made 
use of the best knowledge they possessed. The reputation of 
a country is involved in its public monuments.* 
The following particulars may be added : — 
The Bristol was an American ship nearly new, manned 
by a crew of 16 officers and men, and having 100 passengers, 
about 90 of whom were in the steerage. She sailed from 
Liverpool, Oct. 16th, 1836, and arrived off the Hook, Nov. 
20th. Not succeeding in obtaining a pilot, she was driven, 
on the 2Jst, by a violent gale, upon the Rockaway shoals, a 
few miles west of the Marine Pavilion, and half a mile from 
the shore. The roughness of the sea, by the continuance of 
the gale, rendered it impracticable to afford any assistance 
from the land, till after midnight of the 22nd, when a boat 
from the shore succeeded, at imminent peril, in rescuing 32 
individuals from a watery grave. Of course 64 perished, of 
whom 3 were cabin passengers, and the residue emigrants and 
seamen. 

The Mexico was an American Barque of 3C0 tons, manned 
by a crew of 12 men including officers, and having on board 
112 steerage passengers, as ascertained from her papers, cer- 
tified by the Collector at Liverpool. She left Liverpool Oct. 
23rd, 1836 only a week after the Bristol, but did not arrive 
off the Hook till the 31st of December. Not being able to 
find a pilot, she stood off to sea ; but on returning to the Hook 
on the 2nd of Jan. and attempting to enter the Bay, she was 
driven on Hempstead Beach, about 1(1 miles east of the spot 
where the Bristol had been wrecked. The weather being in- 
tensely cold, and the waves constantly breaking over the 
vessel, the most of the passengers and crew perished in the suc- 
ceeding night. On the following day, a boat from the shore 
succeeded in reaching the vessel, and rescued the captain, 4 

* Since the above was written, the following information has been 
communicated by a gentleman, who was in a situation to become ac- 
quainted with the circumstances of the case. " In regard to the inscrip- 
tion upon the Rockaway Monument, I can only say, that the committee 
who superintended the work, had a number of epitaphs presented to them, 
some of them very appropriate, and possessed of considerable poetic merit. 
But the committee finally adopted the one in question, simply for the rea- 
son, that the individual who prepared it, had pledged a liberal subscription 
towards the monument, on condition that it should secure the prefer- 
ence." — This, truly, is one way of purchasing an inglorious immortality, 
at the expense of the literary reputation of a whole community ; and the 
word is, that the committee consented to the terms, 



SECT. 11.] HEMPSTEAD. 29l 

passengers, and 3 of the crew, who dropped from the bowsprit. 
The boat was unable to return, and the few survivors were 
necessarily left to their fate. The whole number that perished 
was 116. On the 11th of Jan. 43 bodies were buried at the 
place where the monument is erected, and several others that 
were afterwards recovered. A few of the bodies were recog- 
nised and taken by friends for burial elsewhere. 

The whole number that perished from these two vessels 
only 7 weeks apart, was 200. 

These are the most disastrous shipwrecks that have ever 
occurred on the coast of Long Island. Though vessels are 
frequently driven on this shore, there is no instance on record, 
where so many lives have been put at hazard and actually 
lost, as in either of these cases, except that of the British 
sloop of war, Sylph, near the close of the last war, which 
has been previously mentioned. 

Hick's Neck lies 2 or 3 miles east of Near Rockaway, and 
here a Methodist E. Church was erected in 1844. 

Raynor South or Raynortown is about 2 miles east of Hick's 
Neck, and between 5 and 6 miles from the village. It lies 
on East Meadow Brook? which discharges into the bay, form- 
ing one of the best mill seats in the County. 'It has a fine 
landing, and is a place of considerable business. Here a 
Presbyterian Chapel was erected in 1840, through the exer- 
tions of the pastor at the village, by whom it is regularly sup- 
plied. No separate ecclesiastical organization has yet been 
made here, but it bids fair to become a respectable congrega- 
tion. 

Mericl; probably an abbreviation of the Indian name, Meri- 
coke, is a continuous settlement on the south road about 5 miles 
south-east of the village, and a short distance east of Raynor- 
town. Here a Methodist church was erected ir 1S30. 

Newbridge is a name applied to the eastern part of the samo 
continued settlement, in^he south-east corner of the town. 
A Methodist church was erected here in 1839, about 2 miles 
east of that last mentioned. A little west of Shis church is a 
small but neat edifice with a tower, having a very church-like 
aspect, erected in 1840 as a school-house, for which purpose 
it is occupied. 

Jerusalem is a small settlement in the south-eastern part of 
the town north of Newbridge, extending along a brook or 
stream bearing the same name, which affords a number of mill 
seats. The principal part of the population are of the deno- 






292 AJfNALS OE THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

mi nation of Friends, and they have a meeting house erected 
in 1827. 

Plain Edge, or Turkeyville, has been already described as 
lying partly in Oyster Bay. One of the houses of worship is 
within the bounds of this town, though now unoccupied. 

There is one small vicinage in this town, which although 
unknown in the ecclesiastical annals of the place, is worthy 
of a passing notice. On the south road about 3 miles 
south-east of the village of Hempstead, is a small neighbour- 
hood, which has long borne the name of Rum Point. Why 
such a forbidding appellation was applied, the writer is not 
informed. Recent efforts have been made to change the name 
to Greenwich, which the village-landlord has mounted upon 
his sign. But, as the writer, in making a recent excursion 
through this neighbourhood, saw three men, literally reeling 
through the street, he was inclined to believe that the old 
name was the most appropriate. 

Summary. — This town contains 13 distinct congregations, 
and as many houses of worship. 2 Presbyterian, 2 Episco- 
palian, 8 Methodist and 1 Friends. 

N. B. In the transcript of the late census which the writer 
obtained, the number of churches in this town is stated at 24. 
Believing this to be an error made i» transcribing, the writer, 
when forming the schedule on page 124, ventured to change 
the number to 14, which he was satisfied would be much 
nearer the truth, as the result proves. 



Section 12.— NORTH HEMPSTEAD. 

Number of acres improved, - - - 29,708 
" " unimproved, - - 4,762 

Ratio of population to the acre, 1 to 9, nearly. 

The territory included in this township was erected into a 
distinct municipality in 17S4. It is bounded on the north by 
the Sound, east by Oysterbay, south by Hempstead, and west 
by Flushing and Little Neck Bay. Being confined to the 
north side of the island, the land is generally elevated, undu- 
lating, and frequently broken by lofty hiils and deep valleys ; 
but the soil is generally excellent, and in a high state of culti- 
vation. 

It is nominally the capital of Queen's county, the Court- 



SECT. 12.] KOBTH HEMPSTEAD. 293 

house having been erected in 1786, within its limits, about one 
mile from its southern boundary, on the verge of the Great 
Plain. But from the time of its erection, it has remained a 
solitary building, there being not more than 5 or 6 small dwell- 
ings within half a mile or more. It is difficult to imagine 
where or how the good people find accommodations, when ne- 
cessarily attending on the courts. They might, indeed, carry 
their provisions with them, as in primitive times, but the diffi- 
culty of obtaining lodging would still remain. Riverhcad, in 
Suffolk, is now a capacious city, compared with this solitary 
spot. 

The principal village in this town is at the head of Hemp- 
stead Harbour, and bears that name. It is environed on three 
sides by lofty hills — one of which, about half a mile to the 
east, called Harbour Hill, rises to the height of 319 feet, and 
affords a most extended view of both land and water scenery. 
Hempstead Harbour extends up into the land about 6 miles. 
At its mouth it is about 3 miles wide, and gradually contracts 
as it proceeds inland, at the head of which the village is situ- 
ated, with an unobstructed view of the Sound and Connecticut 
shore. Copious springs and large streams, constantly pouring 
from the surrounding hills, afford a greater amount of water- 
power than is to be found probably in any other part of the 
island. The lofty hills that surround this harbour seem to 
contain vast reservoirs of water, which are constantly gushing 
out in numberless springs and copious streams. The water 
privileges of this place were inadvertently omitted, in noticing 
the physical features of the island, in Part I., Section 4. 

The harbour is accessible to within one mile of its head at 
all times of the tide, and greater quantities of lumber and 
manure are transported thither, and more produce is conveyed 
away, than from almost any other landing. Numerous mills 
and factories already exist, and there is abundant power and 
room for more. The village contains about 3U0 inhabitants. 

A Methodist Episcopal church is the only house of worship 
in the village. The time of its erection the writer has not 
been able to ascertain. But it is known that this was one of 
the first places on the island in which that denomination com- 
menced labouring. In 17^7, when " no Conference had been 
held north of Philadelphia, Bp. Asbury, in company with Dr. 
Coke, travelled to New York, where, he says, " the Doctor 
preached with great energy and acceptance ;" and adds, "I 
rode 20 miles on Long Island, to Hempstead Harbour, and 
preached with some liberty in the evening." 



294 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

There is also a small, but neat, academy edifice in this vil- 
lage, in which it is said a good school is maintained. 

Wesfbury is a succession rather than an aggregation of 
dwellings, in the south-east corner of the town, 2 or 3 miles 
east of the court-house. This settlement is occupied princi- 
pally by Friends. A meeting-house of that denomination was 
erected here at an early date. And after the division of 18*27, 
the Orthodox Friends erected a small separate building for 
their own accommodation. 

Manhasset is a name of modern application, to a small vil- 
lage lying on the head of Cow Bay, 2 miles north of Success 
Pond, and 3 miles west of the head of the harbour. The 
name is one to be justly admired, being of aboriginal origin, 
though topographically misapplied. The seat of the Manhas- 
set Indians, it will be recollected, was Shelter Island ; and to 
them the name properly belonged. But while the good people 
of Suffolk are fond of rejecting their aboriginal names, it is 
gratifying to find the inhabitants of other counties disposed to 
rescue them from oblivion. Although there are a few elegant 
mansions in this vicinity, the principal part of the village con- 
sists of small tenements, undistinguished either for beauty of 
situation or symmetry of form. 

A Friends' meeting-house w*s erected here in 1720, and 
was rebuilt in 1810. 

An Episcopal church was erected by subscription from the 
adjacent population, and " a liberal donation from Trinity 
Church, New York," in 1803. It was consecrated by Bishop 
Moore, " by the name and title of Christ's Church, though 
in union with the church at Hempstead, and under the minis- 
tration of the same rector." In 1819, it was incorporated as a 
distinct parish, and the Rev. Eli Wheeler became the rector. 
He was succeeded by the Rev. James P. F. Clarke, who still 
officiates here, and also at Glen Cove. 

A Reformed Dutch church was erected in 1816, in 
which the Rev. David S. Bogart ministered, in connexion 
with the church at Wolver Hollow, in Oysterbay, till his dis- 
mission in 1826. The Rev. Henry Hermance and the Rev. 
James Olterson were successively pastors of these churches 
till 1834. The connexion of the congregations being dis- 
solved Aug. 4th, 1835, the Rev. John Robb was on that day 
ordained pastor of this church. He was dismissed April 17th, 
1837. The Rev. William R. Gordon was ordained pastor in 
January, 1838, and dismissed April 13th, 1842. After a va- 



SECT. 12.] NORTH HEMPSTEAD. 295 

cancy of more than a year, the Rev. John H. Sheffield was 
ordained, and is the present pastor. 

All the public buildings previously mentioned are pleasantly 
situated, in the vicinity of each other, on an elevation of land 
more than 100 feet above tide-water. 

About one mile south of the village, on the road to Success 
Pond, is a small African church, belonging to that branch of 
the Methodists styled " Zion Church," and is said to be one 
of the most flourishing in that connexion. It numbers 70 
church members, and has a temperance society of 140 mem- 
bers. 

Lakeville is a name applied to the vicinage of Success 
Pond, though there is no settlement here that deserves the 
name of a village. A Dutch church was erected on the east 
side of the Pond about the year 1732, which was repaired and 
occupied for religious worship after the Revolutionary War. 
In this same building, the county courts were held for a year 
or two previously to the completion of the County Hall, 
on the southern line of this town. After the erection of the 
Dutch church at Manhasset, a separate organization was 
maintained here, as a part of the collegiate charge of Queen's 
county, to which the Rev. Z. II. Kuypers ministered till April, 
1825. The church was dissolved, by order of the Classis, 
Oct. 6th, 1829. The old edifice was afterwards demolished, 
and its site is now occupied by a private residence. Some of 
the old timbers, of immense size, are still to be seen in the 
vicinity. 

There is no other village, of any consequence, within the 
limits of this town. It may be proper to add, that the ex- 
treme point of Cow Neck, the most northerly part of this town, 
is called Sand's Point, where a Lighthouse was erected by the 
government in 1809. It is a beautiful spot of ground, as the 
numerous passengers through the Sound can testify. 

Summary. — This town contains 7 congregations and 7 
houses of worship : — 1 Episcopalian, 3 Methodist, and 3 
Friends. 



296 ANNALS OP THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 



Section 13.— FLUSHING. 

Number of acres improved - - 13,G90 
" " unimproved - - 4,910 

Ratio of population to the acre, 1 to 4£. 

This town is bounded on the north by the waters of the 
Narrows and Sound, on the east by North Hempstead, on the 
south by Jamaica, and on the west by Flushing Bay and 
Creek, which separate it from Newtown. 

The village is situated near the head of the Bay, or mouth 
of the Creek, over which is a bridge, erected some 40 years 
ago, connecting with Newtown. Previously to this, the only 
way of reaching the city was through Jamaica, a distance of 
nearly 20 miles. By the improvements of the present century 
the distance is only 8 miles. 

The set'lement of this town was commenced in 1645, by 
a company consisting principally of English emigrants, who 
had taken up a temporary residence in Holland, from which 
they were probablv; allured, by the flattering accounts from 
the new world. There were also some among the early set- 
tlers, who had previously emigrated to New England, and w^re 
induced to remove, by the storm which had arisen there 
against dissenters from the common faith. 

They were all non-conformists to Episcopal rites and forms, 
and had left their native land, to find a place where they 
might enjoy the rights of conscience. But they found them- 
selves sadly disappointed, soon after they had taken up their 
residence here, notwithstanding the assurance from the Dutch 
Governor, of enjoying "full liberty of conscience, according 
to the manner and custom of Holland." 

They received a patent or grant of the land from the Gov- 
ernor, with the liberty of choosing certain town officers ; but 
for some years they do not appear to have enjoyed the inde- 
pendent right of municipal government. They were allowed, 
as some of the other towns were, the privilege of presenting a 
list of names, out of which the Governor selected the magis- 
trates and other town officers. To such restrictions, how- 
ever, they might have submitted without complaint, but in the 
course of 10 or 12 years, the government commenced that 
system of religious persecution, which was carried on, with 
more or less severity, till the province was surrendered to the 
English. 



SECT. 13.] FLUSHING. 297 

What was the precise shade of religious views among the 
early settlers of this town, is not known. They were not 
Quakers, as they have sometimes been called, for at that date, 
that denomination had not arisen in England, and George 
Fox, their founder, had not then commenced bis public min- 
istry. But some of them, at least, had adopted opinions in 
relation to some divine ordinances, which differed from the 
mass of dissenters, and for which they had been treated with 
undue severity. And this doubtless prepared the way for the 
quaker system to obtain that favour which it subsequently 
met with in this town. 

The first religious teacher in this place was a man by the 
name of Francis Doughty, who was undoubtedly a Baptist in 
sentiment, and probably laboured here several years. But 
after the introduction of Quakerism, in 1(557, he became a 
convert to that new sect, as was the case with many of the 
inhabitants of this town. Consequently this was one of the 
principal scenes of the Quaker persecution. 

Near the close of the 17th century, when upon the revoca- 
tion of the edict of Nantes, another large immigration of 
French huguenots came to our shores, a number of these 
estimable families took up their domicil in this town. But it 
is said, that a few of the assorted fruit trees that they brought 
with them, constitute the only memorial of their residence 
here. And it has been supposed, that this circumstance may 
have laid the foundation of those splendid nurseries, which now 
exist in this town. 

Churches, &c. 

At an early period, a building was erected near the town 
pond, which was called the Block House, and was long used 
for the transaction of public business, and as a depository for 
arms and ammunition. It was also occupied occasionally, by 
different denominations, as a place of public worship. 

The first house erected for the express purpose of religious 
worship, was the Friends' meeting house, in 1690. It is stdl 
standing, in a good state of preservation, and is probably the 
oldest house of worship on the island. 

The Orthodox meeting house was erected after the schism 
of 1827, but is a small building compared with the other. 

The efforts of the society's missionaries to introduce episco- 
pacy on the island, were commenced here about the same 
time as at Jamaica and Hempstead. But it was nearly 50 
years before an Episcopal church was erected in the town. 

13* 



298 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

In 1746, a lot of land was appropriated for this purpose, 
and in the course of 3 or 4 years a church was erected, which 
gave place to a new edifice in 1912. 

For many years, this church was connected with the other 
Episcopal churches in the county, and was supplied by the 
same rectors. 

The Rev. Barzilla Buckley, commenced officiating here, 
Nov. 4th, 1809, and died March 2 ( Jth, 1820. — The Rev. John 
V. E. Thame, from Aug. 1820, to July, 1826.— The Rev. 
William A. Mulenburgh. D.D., from 1826 to Dec. 23d, 1828. 
—The Rev. William H. Lewis, from Feb. 1829, to July 29th, 
1833.— The Rev. John M. Forbes, from 1833 to '34.— The 
Rev. Samuel R. Johnson, from 1834 to '35 — The Rev. Ro- 
bert B. Van Kleek, from Oct. 1835, to Dec. 1837.— The Rev. 
Frederick J. Goodwin, succeeded in Dec. 1837, and resigned 
Jan. 14th, 1844. — The Rev. George Burcker, the present 
rector, succeeded in March, 1844. 

In 1838 the church was enlarged and repaired, and is a 
handsome building, furnished with a bell and clock. 

A small Methodist church was erected many years ago, 
which gave place to a larger one in 1842. 

A Roman Catholic Chapel was erected some 4 or 5 years 
ago. # 

A Reformed Dutch church was organized in this village in 
May, 184*2, and a church edifice was erected in 1844. The 
Rev. William R. Gordon, who had previously laboured here, 
from the commencement of the enterprise, was installed pas- 
tor in the following autumn. 

On the west side of Little Neck Bay, some 3 miles north 
east of the village, is a small settlement called "Bay Side;" 
and near the head of the bay, on the east side, an Episcopal 
church was erected in 1830, by Alderman Van Zandt, under 
the name of " Zion Church." Here and at Manhasset, the 
Rev. Eli Wheeler officiated about 7 years. He was succeed- 
ed by the Rev. Ralph Williston, and he by the Rev. Chris- 
tian F. Cruse. 

The present rector, the Rev. Henry M. Beare, took charge 
of the parish in May, 1842. He officiates also at Whitestone 
Chapel, about 11 miles to the north west. This point is well 
known, as being the seat of an ancient ferry across the strait, 
to Throg's Neck.* This Chapel was erected by a member of 
the society of Friends, for the use of all religious denomina- 

* Throg's Neck is remarkable as the point at which the tides meet 
through the Sound, and by Sandy Hook. 



SECT. 14.] NEWTOWN. 299 

tions, and the place is now dignified with the name of Clin- 
ionville. 

In this town the African M. E. Church have a society, 
consisting of 69 members ; and there is also a society of the 
"Zion" Church, embracing 59 members; but in relation to 
their places of worship no particulars have been ascertained. 

The literary institutions of this town are worthy of a pass- 
ing notice. 

The Flushing Institute is a noble edifice, delightfully situ- 
ated in the centre of the village, and was incorporated in 
1827. For 10 years it was under the direction of Dr. Mulen- 
burgh, and was devoted to classical instruction. It has since 
been consecrated to female education, having exchanged its 
name for '* St. Ann's Hall," and is under the superintendence 
of the Rev. J. F. Schroeder, D.D. 

St. Thomas' Hall is another institution founded by the Rev. 
Francis L. Hawks, D.D. The buildings were commenced in 
1838, on an extensive scale, which have not yet been com- 
pleted. 

St. PauVs College is another spacious edifice, erected in 
1936-7, on the north west part of Tevfs Neck, now called 
College Point. It is under the charge of Dr. Mulenburgh, 
assisted by a number of able instructors. 

All these institutions are under episcopal direction, and are 
devoted especially to the interests of that denomination. 

Summary. In this town there are 10 religious organiza- 
tions, viz : — 3 Episcopal, 2 Friends, 3 Methodist, 1 Re- 
formed Dutch, and 1 Roman Catholic. 



Section 14.— NEWTOWN. 

Number of acres improved, - - - 10,683 
" " unimproved, - - 6,117 

Ratio of population to the acre, 1 to 3. 
This town is bounded on the north by the strait called the 
East River, including, however, within its territorial limits, 
Hiker's Island ; the two Brothers' and Berrien's Island;— on 
the east by Flushing — south by Jamaica, Flatbush, and Bush- 
wick ; and west by Bushwick and the East River. The 
western part of the town was called by the Indians Mispat, 
whence probably the name of Maspeth is derived. 

Besides the principal village near the centre, Astoria, (for- 



300 ATOfALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

merly Hallet's Cove,) Ravenswood, Maspelh, and Middle 
Village are within the limits of the town. 

The first settlement of the town was commenced about the 
year 1651, principally by English emigrants. A sort of pa. 
tent was obtained from the Dutch governor in the following 
year ; and another, still more liberal in its provisions, in 1655 ; 
at which time the number of occupants of land had increased 
to 70 or 80. 

It seems, that at a very early period of the settlement, they 
instituted a sort of municipal government, and elected magis- 
trates, or officers, to superintend the affairs of the town ; and 
there are records, still extant, of adjudications, which indicate 
a regard to the moral interests of the community. 

At how early a date, an ecclesiastical organization was 
made, cannot be ascertained with certainty. It has been 
said that the labours of a minister were enjoyed soon after 
the settlement was commenced ; but there is no evidence of 
the erection of a house of worship, till nearly 20 years after- 
wards. There are no ecclesiastical records previous to the 
settlement of the second pastor, in 1708, and the book con- 
taining these is now in a very mutilated state. It may be in- 
teresting to posterity to know, that this is the result not of 
wantonness or carelessness, but of the derangement of an in- 
dividual, who found access to the book. 

Churches. 

In 1660, the first church edifice was erected in the village, 
which remained without material alteration during 125 years. 

The form of worship first established, was that which was 
usually denominated Presbyterian or Independent, being the 
same with that of the New England churches. They proba- 
bly adopted the Presbyterian form of government, (properly 
so called) shortly after their second pastor united with the 
Philadelphia Presbytery, which was in 1715. No ruling el- 
ders were appointed till 1724. 

Soon after the revolution, a new church edifice was erected, 
but was not completed till 1791 or '2, and remains to the pre- 
sent time. It is small, but neat, and sufficient to accommo- 
date the congregation, which consists of about 70 families, 
comprehending between 4 and 5C0 souls. 

No Episcopal church was erected in this town till 1734. 
The Presbyterian congregation, however, were made to par- 
ticipate with their brethren of Jamaica and Hempstead, in 
the impositions and persecutions inflicted under the admi- 



SECT. 14.] NEWTOWN. 301 

nistration of Lord Cornbury. Their church was frequently 
taken possession of, and occupied by the missionaries of tho 
church of England ; and the Rev. John Hampton, a Presby- 
terian minister, who was occasionally supplying them, was 
arrested and imprisoned, by Cornbury's order, in 1707, for 
presuming to preach the gospel without the governor's license. 
But the church, though temporarily used, was not permanently 
retained by the friends of prelacy, as in some other places. 

In 1733, a lot was given by the town, to the Episcopalians, 
and in the following year, a church was erected thereon. 

A Reformed Dutch Church was organized in the village in 
1704. 

The first church edifice was erected in 1732. The present 
building in 1831. 

This church formed a part of the collegiate charge of 
King's county, till 1802. Since that time, it has been united 
with Jamaica, in the support of a pastor or pastors. 

In 1809, a Baptist church was organized in this village, 
and soon after a house of worship was erected. It has seldom 
enjoyed the stated administration of the word and ordinances 
for any great length of time. It is now, and has been for 
sometime past, entirely closed. 

In 1839, a small Methodist Episcopal church was erected 
in the village, which enjoys a part of the labours of the preach- 
er stationed in the southern part of the town. 

Ministers. 

The first settled minister in this town was the Rev. Wil- 
liam Leverich, who removed from Huntington, and took 
charge of this church in 1670, where he remained till his 
death, which took place, as nearly as can be ascertained, in 
1692. 

Mr. Leverich was a native of England, graduated at Cam- 
bridge University, in 1625, came to N.England, in 1633, 
where he laboured, in different places, about 20 years. While 
in Sandwich, Mass., being situated near some of the Indians, 
and having a desire to qualify himself to instruct them, he 
acquired their language. After removing to Oysterbay, in 
16)3, he spent about 5 years in the employment of the So- 
ciety for propagating the gospel among the aborigines, in in- 
structing the natives of the island, before he settled as pastor 
of the church in Huntington. He was highly esteemed as a 
scholar, a minister, and a counsellor in all the affairs of the 
town. Cotton Mather records his name among the first of 



302 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

the worthies of that day. Hubbard calls him " an able and 
worthy minister." As the date of his birth is not known, his 
exact age cannot be ascertained. But, from the date of his 
graduation, it may be inferred that he must have been nearly 
90 years old at his death. His descendants of the 4tn and 
5th generation, still remain among the most respectable inha- 
bitants of this town. 

The Rev. John Morse, from Massachusetts, succeeded, in 
1694 ; but little is known of him or of his ministry. He was 
considerably advanced in life when he came to this place, (be- 
ing 55,) "where he remained 10 or 12 years; but whether he 
died here, or removed, is not known. 

The Rev. Samuel Pomeroy (Pumroy, and Pumry, for the 
name is thus variously written) was the next minister. He 
commenced and kept a very full record of all ecclesiastical 
matters, from which the following extracts are taken : — 

*' In July, 1708, there was a paper delivered into the hands 
of Samuel Pumry, being then at Newtown, subscribed by 
some scores of the heads of families there, desiring him to 
take the care of them as a minister of Christ, promising sub- 
jection to his doctrine and discipline, according to the rules of 
the gospel of Jesus Christ. 

11 Which call was tak<*i into consideration, and a time ap- 
pointed to resolve. 

"In September following, the people sent two men to N. 
England, with whom the above Saml. Pumry, his wife and 
child came, and arrived safe at Newtown, 13th of September 
1708. 

" Upon the 30th of November, 1709, Saml. Pumry was, at 
Northampton, before a great congregation, at the earnest re- 
quest of the members in full communion, and the rest of the 
congregation of Newtown, by the Rev. Solomon Stoddard, of 
Northampton — the Rev. John Williams, of Deerfleld, and the 
Rev. William Williams, of Hatfield, ordained a minister of 
Jesus Christ his gospel, and a pastor of the church of Christ at 
Newtown." 

From the records of the Presbytery of Philadelphia, it ap- 
pears that Mr. Pomeroy was received as a member of that 
body, in 1715 ; and it is altogether probable, that from that 
time, the affairs of this church began to be regulated, in some 
measure, by the principles of Presbyterianism. But the fol- 
lowing extract will show that no session was regularly con- 
stituted till some years afterwards : — 



SECT. 14.] NEWTOWN. 303 

" Newtown, July 15th, 1724. 

"Whereas, some time ago, the Rev. Mr. Samuel Pumry, 
pa*tor of the Church of Christ, in Newtown, did complain to 
the church of his wanting some assistance, in the business of 
governing thereof, — There was by him nominated to the 
church and congregation, Content Titus, James Renne, and 
Samuel Coe, to serve in the affairs relating to the church, as 
ruling elders. And desired, if there were any person or per- 
sons, that had anything to object against any of them, their 
taking upon them that office, and their subjection to them as 
officers of authority, in the business of government, that they 
would signify it to the said Mr. Pumry, in some convenient 
time. This was repeated afterwards. 

"After a considerable time, (nothing being objected,) Mr. 
Pumry, upon the Lord's day, after the evening sermon, did 
rehearse the above said declaration, and not one person op- 
posing the motion and proposition, did propose to the men in 
nomination, whether they were freely willing to undertake 
the office. They answered, they were willing to do what 
service they were able to do for Christ in his church. Upon 
which, after prayer, they were solemnly appointed to the of- 
fice of ruling elders, and did engage and promise to take care 
of this branch of the Lord's vine, as far as God should enable. 
The members of the church were also required and exhorted 
to acknowledge them as men in authority, and to subject to 
them in their government in the Lord. This was done upon 
the 28th June, 1724." 

The session met, at the call of the pastor, July 15th, 1724 : 
and it is manifest that at this period, this church first assumed 
the distinctive form of a Presbyterian church. 

These records have been given in detail to show, as it is be- 
lieved they do, most conclusively, that this church, although 
often called Presbyterian, as was common in those days, was 
not originally organized on those distinctive principles. 

The following record is taken from the same book :— - 

" The Reverend Mr. Samuel Pumroy, born the 16th of Sep- 
tember, in the year 1687, came to live at Newtown, on 
the 18th of September in the year 1708, and was ordained a 
minister of the gospel, in Novemr. the 30th, 1709. He 
preached his last sermon on the 20th day of May, 1744 — his 
text was in the first of John, the 2nd chapter, & the 15th 
verse. He was taken amiss the same evening. Departed 
this life the 30th day of June following, about 8 o'clock in the 
morning, and was interred the first day of July following, at 



304 ANXALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

the burying place in Newtown, and has left his dear bosom 
friend and congregation to b::wail an unspeakable loss." 

On the inside of the cover of these records, Mr. Pome- 
roy appears to have noted some of his own domestic affairs. 
His own birth is given, with which the above record corres- 
ponds. Then follows, *« Married to Lydia Taylor, July 2!)th, 
1707. Lydia died Feb. 3n\, 1721-2. " And in the regular list 
of marriages, it appears that he was afterwards married to a 
daughter of the Rev. Mr. Webb, of Green's Farms, Ct. One 
of his daughters married an Edsall,and some of their descend- 
ants may still survive; but the name of Pome roy is extinct in 
this vicinity. 

The Rev. Simon Horton was settled here in 1746. He was 
probably a New England man.* He was born, as appears 
from his own record, March :30th, 1711. He was a highly 
respected and laborious minister, — " died May 8th, 1786, and 
was interred on the 9th," at the age of 75. 

It has been supposed that Mr. Horton was the active pastor 
of this church till his decease. But there is reason to believe, 
that he became so infirm, as to need assistance in the ministry 
more than 10 years before his death. In the records of the 
Synod of New York and Philadelphia, in May 1776, is the 
following minute : — 

" The Synod renewed the consideration of Mr. Bay's ap- 
peal, and after mature deliberation, confirmed that part of the 
Presbytery's judgment which dissolves the union between Mr. 
Bay and his congregation ; and with respect to the latter part 
of said judgment, the Synod are of opinion, that it would have 
been proper to have recommended to the parties, to leave the 
settlement of all matters respecting the glebe and its appur- 
tenances, to arbitrators mutually chosen ; and they further 
advise, that if any disagreement should hereafter arise be- 
tween Mr. Bay and the congregation of Newtown, respecting 
said glebe and appurtenances, that they decide them in the 
same way." 

From a previous record, it appears that Mr. Bay had been 
dismissed by the Presbytery of New-York, June 20th, 1775; 
and the name of Andrew Bay first appears as a member of 
that Presbytery in 1774, having previously belonged to the 

* It has been said that Mr. Horton graduated at Princeton, in 1731, 
but this is a manifest mistake, as the College of New Jersey was not in 
existence at that time. The first class graduated in that institution in 
1748 ; which was two years after his settlement in Newtown, and he had 
been settled previously in Jersey, as early as 1733. 



SECT, 14.] NEWTOWN. 305 

New Castle Presbytery. From these facts, it is manifest he 
could have been settled only a year or two in Newtown. 
Little te known of this man. His name is still repeated by a 
few survivors of a former generation, but with no association 
that gives a favourable impression of him as a gospel 
minister. 

In the records of this church, the name of a Mr. Lyon ap- 
pears, in connection with some ministerial services in the 
year preceding Mr. Horton's death ; but whether as an occa- 
sional supply, or as a stated labourer, is not known. 

The last marriage celebrated by Mr. Horton, is recorded 
under date of Jan. 21st, 1786, only a little more than 3 
months before his decease. 

The Rev. Nathan Woodhull was the next pastor. Having 
been dismissed from Huntington, April 21st, 1789, he entered 
into an engagement with this congregation, in Feb. following, 
to preach for one year. He was, however, regularly installed 
Dec. 1st, 1790, and died March 13th, 1810. He was an 
amiable man, an affectionate and interesting preacher, lived 
universally esteemed, and died as universally regretted. His 
widow and a large family of children have been, for several 
years, numbered with the dead, and only two of his children 
have left issue. 

The Rev. William Boardman was installed Oct. 31st, 1811. 
He had been previously settled at Duanesburgh. He was a 
man of ardent and active piety, and died, deeply regretted, 
March 4th, 1818, in the 37th year of his age. 

The Rev. John Goldsmith, the present pastor, a son of the 
Rev. Benjamin Goldsmith, of Riverhead, was ordained here, 
Nov. 17th. 1819. - 

It is rather a remarkable fact, that the ashes of 5 of the pas- 
tors of this church repose in the burying-grounds of the 
town, and that the monuments of all, except the first, are in 
a state of perfect preservation. 

The Reformed Dutch Church of this town having, from its 
organization, till the commencement of the present century, 
constituted a part of the collegiate charge of Queen's County, 
its several pastors will be found in the annals of Jamaica. At 
the present time, the Rev. Dr. Schoonmaker, residing at Ja- 
maica, and the Rev. Mr. Garretson in this town, are the col- 
legiate pastors of the two churches, and alternate in the per- 
formance of their public services. 

After the erection of the Episcopal Church in this town, in 



306 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

1734, it was associated with that of Jamaica and Flushing, 
and served by the same rector. 

The Rev. Mr. Vandyke officiated here from 1797 to 1802. 

The Rev. Abraham L Clarke from 1802 to 1811. 

The Rev. William Wyatt for a short period. 

The Rev. Evan M. Johnson from 1814 to 1827. 

The Rev. George A. Shelton was inducted in 1827, and still 
remains in the charge. 

Astoria, (Hallet's Cove.) — An Episcopal Church was erect- 
ed in this village, which is just at the western entrance 
into Hurlgate, (the Dutch Helle-gat,) in 1828, of which the 
Rev. Samuel Seabury was the first rector. 

The present rector is the Rev. George W. Brown, who was 
inducted Oct. 1, 1837. He has charge, also, of a Female 
Institute, which was established in the following year. 

A church edifice was erected here somewhere about the 
year 1834, " by the contributions of the friends of the Pres- 
byterian and Dutch Churches ;" and " the Rev. Mr. Gold- 
smith, of the Presbyterian, and the Rev. Mr. Garretson, of 
the Dutch Church in Newtown, preached there alternately on 
the afternoon of each sabbath, for a length of time. The 
Presbyterians having r^inquished the church to the Dutch 
congregation," application was made to the Classis, July 2d, 
1839, and a Committee appointed to organize a church, which 
was duly recognised Jan. 7th, 1840, and the Rev. Alexander 
H. Bishop, was ordained its pastor on the 10th of Nov. fol- 
lowing, and remains in the charge. 

Maspeth is a small settlement near Newtown Creek, on 
the southwest line of the town. Here was the country-seat 
of the late Dewitt Clinton, one of the first statesmen and 
greatest benefactors of the state. Here, also, is the seat of 
the Hon. Garrit Furman, who has one of the finest private 
mineralogical cabinets in the country. 

The only public edifice is an ancient Friends' meeting- 
house, which is now very much in decay, and is seldom used, 
as very few of that denomination are to be found in this vi- 
cinity. It is supposed to be about 100 years old, but there is 
some reason to believe that it is even more ancient. Thomas 
Chalkley mentions, in his travels, " a general meeting of 
Friends held at Newtown," in 1724, and as this is the only 
meeting-house of that people in the town, it is probable that 
the meeting was here ; and, in all probability, this house had 
been previously erected. 

Middle Village is a name applied to a somewhat scattered 



SECT. 15.] JAMAICA. 307 

settlement in the southern part of the town, on the turnpike 
road leading from Williamsburgh to Jamaica. This place is 
remarkable as being the site of the first Methodist Church 
erected on Long Island. It was built in 1785, and is still 
standing, though it has been converted into a dwelling. 

A new edifice was built about a quarter of a mile from 
the former site, in 1836, and stands directly on the turnpike 
road. This building was erected principally by the liberality 
and personal efforts of Mr. Joseph Harper, (the father of 
James Harper, late Mayor of the cit)^ of New-York,) who was 
born, and has lived nearly 80 years, in this immediate vicinity. 
Mr. Harper was one of the earliest members of the Methodist 
church, and has been a consistent professor of religion and de- 
voted member of the church about 60 years. 

Summary. — In this town are about 7 religious organiza- 
tions, and 8 houses of worship, viz : — 1 Presbyterian, 2 Re- 
formed Dutch, 2 Episcopalian, 2 Methodist, and 1 Friends — 
the last not occupied. 

Section 15.— JAMAICA. 

Number of acres improved - - - 12,264 
" " unimproved - - - 18,536 

Ratio of population to the acre, 1 to 8 nearly. 

This town is bounded on the north by Newtown and Flush- 
ing — east by Hempstead — south by the Bay, and west by 
Flatlands and Flatbush. 

The town was first called Rusdorpe, and the present name 
is said to have been derived from an Indian word of similar 
orthography. 

The first settlement was made in 1656, by a company from 
the adjoining town of Hempstead. They purchased the land 
of the natives, and obtained a grant from Gov. Stuyvesant, in 
that year, giving them " free leave to erect or build a town," 
and to have " the choice of their own magistrates, as in the 
other villages or towns, as Middleborough, Breucklin, Midwout 
and Amersfort." 

The first town meeting was held in Feb. 1657, from which 
time their records have been carefully preserved : the first 
volume of which has been faithfully transcribed, by the vol- 
untary labour of an individual. These records contain the 
only history of the ecclesiastical as well as civil proceedings 
of the town, for a long series of years, as both were transact- 
ed in the town meetings. 



308 ANNALS OP THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

The first purchasers of the town were about 17, but in the 
course of 4 years, the number of landholders was increased 
to 60. There is reason to believe that public worship was es- 
tablished at an early period, though they do not appear to have 
enjoyed the labours of a stated preacher for 4 or 5 years. 

In 1664, a small colony from this town passed over into 
Jersey and commenced the settlement of Elizabeth Town. 
The purchase of the Indians there, was made by John Baily, 
Daniel Denton and Luke Watson. Gov. Nicolls gave a pa- 
tent to John Baker, of New- York, John Ogden, of North- 
ampton, John Baily and Luke Watson. Several other towns 
in New Jersey, are indebted to Long Island for their original 
settlers, or for subsequent accessions to the number of their 
inhabitants. 

Churches, &c * 

In Aug. 1663, the town voted to build " a meeting house,' , 
26 Ccet square, which was carried into effect — a house for the 
minister having been erected in the preceding year, the di- 
mensions of which were 26 by 17 feet, and 10 feet posts.. 

A new stone Church was erected somewhere near the close 
of the 17th century. »The precise date is not known. A vote 
for its erection was passed in 1689 or '90. It is supposed 
that the date on the vane, was designed to mark the period of 
its completion. This however was so much defaced by the 
bullets of the British soldiers, who had made it a target, dur- 
ing the revolutionary war, that it was difficult to determine 
whether the figures were 1693 or 1699. This building was 
40 feet square, with a pointed roof, and, according to the taste 
of the age, was placed in the middle of the main street, a lit- 
tle distance west of the present Presbyterian church. A new 
parsonage house was erected about the ^ame time. 

The present Presbyterian Church was erected in 1814, with 
a parsonage on the adjoining lot. 

Somewhere about the year 17i 1 or '2. the Reformed Dutch 
Church was organized in this town, which was the first of 
that order in Queen's County. The church edifice, an octa- 
gon of 34 feet diameter, was erected in 1715. It was used 
by the British in the time of the war. as a military store house. 
Upon the return of peace, it was thoroughly repaired, and oc- 
cupied by the congregation till the erection of the present 
neat and commodious building cf modern construction, in 
1*33. 



SECT. 15.] JAMAICA. 309 

This town, not less than that of Hempstead, suffered se- 
verely under the tyranny of Lord Cornbury, though they were 
more fortunate in finally securing their rights, after many 
years' privations. No Governor of the province was ever 
more obnoxious to the mass of the people ; and the highest 
virtue that his friends could claim for him, was his exceeding 
madness and zeal for the established church. And it appears 
to have been for the promotion of its interests, that his op- 
pressive measures were imposed upon this and other towns of 
the island. 

In the summer following his Lordship's arrival in the pro- 
vince (17L2)the city of New-York was visited withan alarm- 
ing sickness, (since supposed to have bean the yellow freer) 
which was attended with a dreadful mortality. The Gover- 
nor, for his own safety, and that of his family, retreated to 
thn pleasant village of Jamaica. The minister of the Presby- 
terian church, being in the occupancy of a parsonage house 
recently built by the congregation, and said to be ** the best 
house in the town," in compliment to the supreme magistrate 
of the province, kindly ottered to give up his dwelling, for 
the accommodation of the Governor's family, while he should 
be compelled to reside among them. The offer was readily 
accepted. Smith says, in his history of New-York, Corn- 
bury " requested 'the use of the house, and the favour was rea- 
dily granted, though at the great inconvenience of the pastor. 
The difference is not material. 

But this noble and generous exhibition of respect and kind- 
ness was speedily requited, with one of the grossest acts of 
usurpation, that ever disgraced a tyrant. On a sabbath af- 
ternoon, not long after, as the generous pastor, with his peo- 
ple, entered their church, at the usual hour, for the worship of 
God, to their utter astonishment, they found the pulpit occu- 
pied by an episcopal minister, (one of the Society's mission- 
aries,) and a few of the principal seats, by the Governor and 
his dependents. The pastor and his congregation peaceably 
retired to a neighbouring orchard, where, under the open 
canopy of heaven, a temple made without hands, they wor- 
shipped the God of their fathers. And for many years after- 
wards, they were not permitted to occupy the house of wor- 
ship, in the erection of which, it is asserted, on unquestion- 
able authority, that only two individuals of the episcopal order 
had ever contributed a dollar. 

But this act of perfidy and base ingratitude was even thrown 
into the shade, by the Governor's subsequent conduct. When 



310 ANNALS OP THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

he returned to the city, instead of restoring the parsonage to its 
rightful occupant, he left it in the possession of the episcopal 
missionary, who with his successors, continued to occupy it, 
under the protection of gubernatorial authority, for the space 
of 25 years. 

In addition to all this, the early settlers of this town had 
appropriated a valuable glebe, for the support of the gospel. 
This was seized by the Sheriff*, doubtless by direction of the 
Governor, divided into lots and leased out, for the mainte- 
nance of episcopal worship.* All these acts of gross injustice, 
the people were obliged to submit to, for a long series of years. 
And it was not till the year 1728, after a most protracted and 
expensive course of litigation, adroitly managed for the delay, 
if not for the defeat of justice, that they were finally put in 
possession of their property, and the secure enjoyment of their 
rights. When the final decision was made, in favour of the 
rightful owners, the independent Judge,f who ventured to do 
justice in the case, was made the object of the most severe, 
vituperative abuse ; by which, he was compelled to come out, 
and publish a full disclosure of the disgraceful facts, by which 
the tongue of scandal was finally silenced. As a finale to 
these acts of oppression, it is added, that the Sheriff, who act- 
ed a conspicuous part in their progress, being afterwards ac- 
cused of some crime and imprisoned, died the death of the 
traitor Judas, by becoming his own executioner. After the 
final adjudication of this case, Episcopal service was main- 
tained in the Court House till 1734, when the first Church 
edifice of that denomination was erected in this village. The 
present edifice was built in 1820. 

The first Methodist preaching on Long Island was com- 
menced in this place, and was coeval with its introduction into 
this country. «« The first Methodist sermon preached in Ame- 
rica was delivered in 1766, in the city of New York, to an 
assembly of 5 persons." The circumstances attending this 

* Smith says " Jamaica was mostly settled by New England emigrants, 
encouraged to settled by the Duke of York's conditionsfor plantations ; 
one of which was, " that every township should be obliged to pay their 
own ministers, according to such agreement, as they should make with 
him ; the minister being elected by the major part of the freeholders and 
inhabitants of the town. These people had erected an edifice, and en- 
joyed a handsome donation of a parsonage house and glebe, for the use of 
the minister. A few Episcopalians crept into the town, &c" 

t LEWIS MORRIS, Chief Justice of New- York and New Jersey— 
afterwards Governor of New-Jersey :— a name to be held in lasting re. 
membrance. 



SECT. 15. J JAMAICA. 311 

event, are so intimately connected with the first labours of 
that denomination in this town, as to warrant a brief recital. 

A little before the time above-mentioned, a few individuals, 
who " had been attached to Wesleyan Methodism at home" 
had emigrated to New York. Among these was Philip 
Embury, a mechanic, who had been a local preacher in that 
connexion in Ireland. But upon coming to this country, 
" not finding any pious acquaintances with whom they could 
associate, they gradually lost their relish for divine things, 
sunk away into the spirit of the world, and came very near 
making shipwreck of faith and a good conscience." These 
were found by a "pious mother in Israel" (who had subse- 
quently arrived,) " mingling in the frivolities and sinful 
amusements of life." Having ascertained the place of their 
resort, " she suddenly entered the room, seized the pack of 
cards with which they were playing, and threw them into the 
fire. After reproving the company, she said to Embury, 
"You must preach for us, or we shall all go to hell together, 
and God will require our blood at your hands. Arrange- 
ments were immediately made, and Embury "accordingly 
preached his first sermon in his own hired house, to 5 persons 
only. This, it is believed, was the first Methodist sermon 
preached in America." 

The year after Embury commenced preaching in the city, 
a new and more attractive labourer came to his aid. This was 
Capt. Thomas Webb, a British officer stationed as barrack- 
master at Albany. He had been a convert at Bristol, under 
Mr. Wesley's preaching, and finding more pleasure in serving 
the King of kings, than the king of England, he relinquished 
his post, and zealously engaged in calling sinners to repent- 
ance. But still retaining his regimentals and arms, he attracted 
no little attention. "The novelty of a man's preaching in a 
scarlet coat, soon brought great numbers to hear him." 

As some of the relations of Capt. Webb's wife resided at 
Jamaica, he took a house there and commenced preaching 
in that town and its vicinity. He seems to have been what is 
called " a rough hewer" and employed himself, to use his 
own language " in felling trees on Long Island." " Within 
six months, about 24 persons received justifying grace, nearly 
half of them whites — the rest negroes." 

If a regular Methodist society was established here, at this 
early period, there is no record or other evidence of the fact. 
Even the erection of the existing house of worship belonging 
to that denomination in this village, has not been ascertained 



312 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

with precision: But the deed being dated July 8th, ] 8 ;°» 
and the certificate of incorporation, May 13th, 1811, it is in- 
ferrcd that it was built about that time. 

There are also, at the present time, two small Methodist 
societies of coloured people in this town, each of which has a 
small house of worship. 

The Roman Catholics have also a small chapel, which was 
erected about the year 1838. 

About *2 miles to the east, is a small settlement bearing the 
name of BrushvWe, in which there is a small house of wor- 
ship erected by individual enterprise, and occasionally occu- 
pied by different denominations; but as yet no ecclesiastical 
organization has been formed. 

In 1684, a County Hall was erected in this village, in which 
the Courts of the North Riding were held, till it was too 
small to accommodate the people. After the erection of the 
stone church by the Presbyterian Congregation, the courts 
were held for some years in that building. 

In 1709, a new Court House was erected, and con- 
tinued to be used till the seat of justice was removed to 
North Hempstead. The county offices, however, are still 
required to be kept r^ere, and suitable buildings have been pro- 
vided for the purpose. 

Union Hall, the third Academy on Long Island, was 
erected in 1791 — chartered March 9th, 1792, and opened in 
the following May. It has been a flourishing institution, and 
continues deservedly in high repute. 

A new and larger edifice was erected in 1820, and the 
former appropriated to the education of females ; which 
being consumed by fire in 1841, a new and elegant edifice 
was reared in 1843, nearly opposite the Presbyterian church, 
which is not only an ornament to the village, but furnishes 
pleasant accommodations, for one of the most flourishing Fe- 
male institutions in this part of the State. 

Ministers. 

Mr. Zechariah Walker appears to have been the first 
stated preacher employed in this town. He was not ordained, 
and was engaged from time to time, from 16H2 to 1668, at 
which period he removed to Connecticut, and finally died at 
Woodbury, Jan., 1099, aged 62 years. 

After an unsuccessful attempt to secure the labours of Mr. 
Jones of Greenwich, Connecticut, who afterwards settled at 



SECT. 15.] JAMAICA. 313 

Huntington, the town voted, March 8th, 1670, to engage Mr. 
John Prudden for one year. He continued here till January, 
] 674, when he informed the people that " he was engaged to 
another congregation." After a temporary absence, during 
which time a Mr. Woodruff appears to have been employed, 
Mr. Prudden returned and supplied this place from June 1 676 
to 1691. There is no evidence that he was regularly settled, 
and not far from the date last mentioned, he removed to New- 
ark, where he died Dec. 11th, 1725, at the advanced age of 
80 years. 

In the town records under date of Oct. 25th, 1692, is a vote 
proposing £60 a-year, and one load of wood from "every 
inhabitant within the said township," as a compensation to Mr. 
Jeremiah Hubbard or Hobart, for his services in the ministry. 
Whether he accepted or not does not appear. If he did, he 
could have remained here only a year or two. 

In 1693 or *4, Mr. George Phillips from Massachusetts was 
employed. He remained, but without ordination, till 1697, 
when he removed to Brookhaven, where he has been previ- 
ously noticed. 

The Rev. John Hubbard, a graduate of Harvard in 1695, 
was settled here in 1698. He was a man of distinguished piety 
and general excellence of character. Mather, in his Magna- 
lia, makes the following statement, as derived from the family : 
that " he read over the whole bible six times every year ; 
nevertheless he used to say, that every time he read it, he 
observed, or collected something which he never did before." 
He was the incumbent of the parish, whose generosity was 
basely requited by Lord Cornbury. 

The name of this individual has been so frequently con- 
founded with that of Jeremiah Hubbard, or Hobart previously 
mentioned, and in the town records, the names being variously 
written, Hubbard, Hubard, Hubbert and Hobert, that it has 
been difficult to guard against some mistakes which have 
heretofore obtained currency. 

The Rev. Francis Goodhue, laboured here from 1705 to 
1707, but whether settled or not, does not appear. He died 
Sept. 15th, 1707, while in New England. 

The Rev. George McNish was called to this place in 1712. 
He was a native of Scotland or Ireland, had been settled in 
Maryland, was one of the first members of the Presbyterv of 
Philadelphia, and bore an active part in the organization and 
building up of the Presbyterian church in America. 

The settlement of Mr. McNish as pastor of this church, 

14 



314 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

furnishes the true date of the introduction of Presbyterianism, 
in its distinctive forms, upon Long Island. The call address- 
ed to him by this congregation was laid before the Presbytery 
of Philadelphia, in Sept. 1711. At the same time, a call 
from Patuxent, in Maryland, was presented, and the Presby- 
tery "determined to leave the affair to himself, with advice 
not to delay fixing himself somewhere." As no further notice 
occurs in the records of that body, it is impossible to deter- 
mine the precise date of his settlement here. But the records 
of the town show, that a vote was passed, July 25th, 1712, to 
put him in possession of the parsonage and certain lands, at 
which time he was probably engaged in pastoral service. 

The influence of Mr. McNish was evidently exerted for the 
dissemination of Presbyterianism, in the churches of the island. 
In 1715, the Rev. Mr. Pomeroy, of Newtown, became a 
member of the Philadelphia Presbytery, and in the following 
year they were set off, to form a Presbytery on Long Is'and, 
which was duly organized at Southampton, in April, 1717. 
And this, as it has been previously stated, was the first Pres- 
byterial association on Long Island, or in the province of New 
York ; and for many years all the Presbyterian churches 
formed in Westchester county and the city of New York, 
were subject to its jurisdiction. 

The records of the Synod of Philadelphia furnish abundant 
evidence that Mr. McNish was a remarkably punctual and 
active member of that body, to the close of his life, having 
been absent but once during the whole time. In the minutes 
of the Synod, held in Sept. 1723, his death is recorded in the 
following words : " Upon reading the list of ministers, the 
Synod found, to their great grief, that Mr. McNish is dead." 
In the church register of Newtown is the following entry, 
which undoubtedly gives the correct date of his death : — 
" The Rev. George McNish died March 10th, 1722-3." The 
idea, therefore, which has obtained currency to some extent, 
that he was laid aside from the ministry by bodily infirmity, 
several years before his death, and removed to Orange county, 
is evidently without foundation. He may have been possessed 
of property in that quarter, where some of his descendants re- 
side at the present time. 

The Rev. Robert Cross was settled here in 1723. He was 
a native of Ireland, licensed by the New Castle Presbytery, 
and ordained by them in 1719. Though in the early part of 
his ministry he had fallen under censure, he not only gave 
satisfactory evidence of repentance, but by his subsequent 



SECT. 15.] JAMAICA. 315 

life established and maintained a highly respectable character. 
In May, 1737, he was dismissed by the Synod to take charge 
of the first Presbyterian church in Philadelphia, where he 
died in Aug. 1766. 

The Rev. Walter Wilmot succeeded Mr. Cross as pastor. 
He was ordained, April 12th, 1738, Mr. Pemberton, of New 
York, preaching on the occasion. He was greatly beloved 
by his people, but his ministry was short. He married a 
daughter of Jotham Townsend, of the society of Friends, in 
Oyster Bay. She embraced the views of the Presbyterians, 
and appears from her private diary to have been a devout 
christian. She died Feb. 25th, 1744, in the 23d year of her 
age, and was interred in her native town. Mr. Wilmot died 
greatly lamented, on the 6th of August following. His tomb- 
stone bears the following inscription : — 

Here lyes 

the Rev. Walter Wilmot, 

Dec'd Aug. 6th, 1744, 

^Etatis 35. 

No more from sacred desk I preach, 

You hear my voice no more, 
Yet from the dead my dust shall teach 

The same I taught before. 

Be ready for this dark abode, 

That when our bodies rise, 
We meet with joy the Son of God, 

Descending from the skies. 

It has been said that an infant child of Mr. Wilmot sur- 
vived him, but as no further mention is made of it, there is rea- 
son to believe, it soon followed its parents to an early grave. 
But though the family has become extinct, the names of both 
Walter and Wilmot are common in this congregation even to 
the present day. In the records of Newtown, Mr. Wilmot's 
death is noticed, and his mother is mentioned as the only sur- 
viving relative. 

The Rev. David Bostwick was ordained here Oct. 9th, 
1745, on which occasion President Burr preached. He was 
an able minister and highly esteemed by his people, who 
parted with him with great reluctance ; but being called to 
the city of New York, the case was submitted to a commission 
of Synod, who decided in favour of his removal, April 13th, 
1756. He died in the city, Nov. 12th, 1763, in the 44th 
year of his age. 



316 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

The Rev. Elihu Spencer, D.D., who had been previously- 
settled in Elizabethtovvn, N. J., supplied this congregation, 
from May 1758 to 1760. He then removed to Shrewsbury, 
afterwards to Delaware, and still later to Trenton, where he 
died Dec. 27th, 1784, in the 64th year of his age. 

Mr. Betioni Bradner, preached here from 1760 to '62, 
being a licentiate. 

The Rev. William Mills, a native of Smithtown, and gradu- 
ate of Nassau Hall, in 1756, was installed pastor of this church 
in 1702. In 1767 he received a pressing call to Philadelphia, 
but the Presbytery of Suffolk decided against it. The Com- 
missioners appealed to the Synod, where after a full hearing 
of the case, Mr. Mills declared his own conviction that he 
ought to remain at Jamaica, and the Synod decided ac- 
cordingly. 

His ministry was not greatly extended. Being affected 
with a chronic disease, he repaired to New York for medical 
aid, where he died, March 18th, 1774. The following notice 
of the event is taken from a city paper, under date of March 
24th of that year :— 

"On Friday last, died in this city, in the 36th year of his 
age, the Rev. WUliqm Mills, minister of the Presbyterian 
church at Jamaica, L. I. His amiable disposition, his peace- 
ful and prudent conduct, his unaffected piety and rational de- 
votion, remarkably endeared him to those acquainted with 
him ; and as his life was a bright example of the christian 
virtues he inculcated on others, so, in the prospect of dissolu- 
tion, he enjoyed that calm serenity of soul, and that good 
hope, which are the peculiar privileges of the righteous. 
* Mark the perfect man and behold the upright, for the end of 
that man is peace.' 

"His remains were interred on Monday last, at Jamaica ; a 
large number of the most respectable inhabitants of that town, 
and the country adjacent, attended at the funeral, when a 
sermon well adapted to the occasion, was preached by the 
Rev. Dr. Rodgers, from Matt. xxv. 21." 

It is said, that one or more of the ministers who died in this 
place, were buried, according to the custom of the times, un- 
der the church. But it is understood, that when the old stone 
building in the middle of the street was demolished, their re- 
mains were removed to the burying yard. 

During Mr. Mills' ministry (probably in 1764,) occurred the 
first distinguished revival in this town, of which there is any 



6ECT. 15. J JAMAICA. 317 

notice. Considerable additions were made to the church, 
which previously numbered only 13 members. 

Mr. Mills appears to have been a man of wealth, as " three 
improved farms," constituting a part of his estate, were adver- 
tised for sale shortly after his death. 

The Rev. Matthias Burnett, D.D., commenced preaching 
here in 1774, and was ordained by the Presbytery of New 
York as pastor, in the spring of 1775. He continued here 
during the whole war. He was dismissed in April, 1785, and 
removed to Norwalk, where he died suddenly, June 30th, 
1S06. The writer remembers this event with solemn interest. 
He preached for Dr. Burnett on the preceding day, and parted 
from him on Monday morning, about two hours before his 
sudden exit. 

The Rev. James Glassbrook, a Scotchman by birth and edu- 
cation, laboured here for 2 or 3 years, and received a call, 
but some difficulties arising, he was not settled. He was an 
able preacher, but a man of strong passions, in which the diffi- 
culties probably originated. Mr., afterwards the Rev. Dr. 
Hillyer, and also a Mr. White preached here in this va- 
cancy. 

The Rev. George Faitoute received a call in May, 1789, 
and was installed on the 15th of December following, on 
which occasion Dr. McKnight preached, and Dr. Rodgers de- 
livered the charges. Mr. F. was of huguenot descent, a 
native of N. Y. city, a graduate of Nassau Hall, in 1774, and 
had been settled about 8 years in West Jersey. He was an 
amiable, pious man, and a peculiarly affectionate preacher. 
He died suddenly on Sabbath, Aug. 21, 1815, having preach- 
ed with his usual vigour in the morning. 

Mr. F. states under date of April 25th, 1793, that his con- 
gregation then consisted of 96 families, comprehending 539 
individuals besides his own family, which was 12 in number. 
The number of communicants 58. He adds, " God grant a 
revival of pure religion among us." 

The Rev. Henry R. Weed, D.D., was called in 1815, and 
ordained Jan. 4th, 1816. He was dismissed in 1822, and re- 
moved to Albany, whence, after a few years, he went to the 
West, and is now settled at Wheeling, Va. During Mr. 
Weed's ministry, a revival was enjoyed, and about 80 were 
added to the church. 

The Rev. Seymour P. Funk was ordained March 6th, 1823, 
and was dismissed May 9th, 1825. He died a few years 
afterwards at Flatlands. 



318 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

In the vacancy which succeeded, the church was in a very- 
distracted state, when the Rev. Asahel Nettleton, D.D., was 
providentially directed hither. His labours were attended 
with a peculiar outpouring of the Spirit, and multitudes were 
hopefully brought into the kingdom. In the course of the 
current year, 110 members were added to the church, 70 on 
one occasion. 

The Rev. Ellas W. Crane was installed Oct. 31st, 1826. 
He was a man of rare excellence, and a peculiarly devoted and 
faithful pastor. The revival which commenced under Mr. 
Nettleton was continued after Mr. C.'s settlement. Again, in 
1828, and yet again in 1831, this congregation was visited 
from on high, and many were added unto the Lord. In 1835 
the number of communicants was 333. Mr. Crane was called 
from his work without premonition, Nov. 10th, 1840, having 
just returned from preaching on the same evening. 

The Rev. James Macdonald, the present pastor, was install- 
ed May 5th, 1841. 

This church has continued to enjoy the smiles of heaven, 
and is now numbered among the largest and most prosperous 
on the island. Its advancement within the last 35 years has 
formed a singular contrast with its previous history. In 1810 
it numbered only 51 communicants, and this was nearly as 
large a number as at any former period. Since that time, 
under a series of merciful visitations, it has gradually increas- 
ed, till its present number of members exceeds 400. 

In connection with this place, though without a pastoral re- 
lation to any of the churches, the name of the Rev. Abraham 
KeUletas is deserving of respectful mention. He was born in 
New York, December 26th, 1732, and graduated at Yale in 
1752. He was first settled at Elizabethtown, N. J., Septem- 
ber 14th, 1757, and dismissed in 1759. He removed to Ja- 
maica, where he occupied a farm, and spent much of his time 
in preaching to the vacant congregations on the island and 
elsewhere. He was a man of strong mind and extensive and 
varied learning. He often preached in three different lan- 
guages — the Dutch, French and English. He was chosen 
a member of the Convention of 1777, that formed the first 
Constitution of the state of New York. Being a zealous and 
devoted patriot, he was peculiarly obnoxious to British rage, 
and was therefore, obliged to leave the island during the war. 
His property was taken possession of — his mansion defaced — 
his timber destroyed, and his slaves taken and enlisted as 
soldiers of the king. He was a man of strong feelings and 



SECT. 15.] JAMAICA. 319 

of independent spirit. From some dissatisfaction, in 1764 
or '5, he withdrew from the Presbytery of New York and 
declined the jurisdiction of the Presbyterian church. He con- 
tinued, however, to bestow his services wherever they were 
needed, till the close of life ; and he is still remembered, by 
the surviving few, in many of the churches of the island. He 
died September 30th, 1798, at the age of 65 years. 

Ministers of the Episcopal Church. 

The Rev. Patrick Gordon was the first Episcopal minister 
in this town. He was the individual whom Cornbury placed 
in the Presbyterian Church, and left in possession of the 
parsonage and glebe, when he returned to the city in 1702. 
He was one of the Society's first missionaries, who came 
over in company with the Rev. George Keith, the apostate 
Quaker, to introduce episcopacy into the country-towns. He, 
however, retained these ill-gotten possessions but a short time, 
being soon removed by death. The Rev. Mr. Honyman offi- 
ciated here in 1708 — 4, being appointed by a " licence from 
lord Cornbury, during his lordship's pleasure." He was suc- 
ceeded temporarily by the Rev. Mr. Mott. 

The Rev. William Urquhart, another missionary of the 
society was stationed here in 1704 and died in 1709. 

The Rev. Thomas Poyer was sent over in 1710 and con- 
tinued io labour here till 1730, when he returned to Eng- 
land and died soon after. 

The Rev. Thomas Colgan was rector from 1732 to 1755. 

In 1756, the Rev. Samuel Seabury succeeded. He was 
the first rector of American birth, being a native of New 
London. But he was also employed by the Society. Mr. 
Seabury removed to Westchester in 1766, and after the com- 
mencement of the war, being a royalist, went to New York, 
where he resided till its close. After the peace, he returned 
to his native town. In 1784 he went to England, and sought 
ordination to the episcopate. Being refused by the English 
bishops, for reasons of a political character, he went to Scot- 
land and obtained ordination of the non-juring prelates of 
that section of the Episcopal church. He was the first Epis- 
copal bishop in the United States. He died February 25th, 
1796. 

The Rev. Joshua Bloomer succeeded in 1766. He had 
been an officer in the provincial service, and went to England 
for orders which he received in 1765. He died June 23rd, 
1790, aged 55 years. 



320 ANNALS OP THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

The Rev. William Hammel officiated here from 1790 to 
1795, but having lost his sight he resigned. 

The Rev. Charles Seabury in 1795—6. 

The Rev. Elijah D. Rattoone from 1797 to 1802 ; and the 
Rev. Calvin White from January 1803 to August 1S04. 

The succeeding 6 years were occupied by several ministers, 
among whom were the Rev. Messrs. George Strebeck — An. 
drew Fowler — John Ireland — Edmund D. Barry and Timo- 
thy Clowes, 

The Rev. Gilbert N. Sayre was inducted in May, 1810, 
and resigned in 1830. 

The Rev. Wdliam L, Johnson succeeded in 1830 and still 
sustains the charge. 

Ministers of the Reformed Dutch Church. 

For many years after the organization of the Dutch church 
in this town, it was supplied by the collegiate pastors of King's 
county. 

The Rev. Johann r s Hsnricus Goctschius, a native of 
Switzerland, was the first pastor of this church, in connection 
with Newtown, Success or North Hempstead, and Wolver 
Hollow or Ovsterbay, which continued as one charge till 
1802. He received ftis education in part in his native 'and, 
at the University of Zurich ; and was ordained by the Ger- 
man church in Pennsylvania. He remained here from 1741 
to '51, and then removed to Hackensack in New Jersey. 

The Rev. Thomas Romeyn, a native of Jersey and a gradu- 
ate at Nassau Hall in 1750, was pastor from 1752 to '6-J. 

The Rev. Hermanus L. Botlen, a minister from Holland, 
laboured here a few years between 1766 and '70, and then 
returned home. 

The Rev. Solomon Froeligh was settled in 1775, but when 
the island fell into the hands of the British in the following 
year, he removed to New Jersey ; and during the war these 
churches were without a pastor. 

The Rev. Rynier Van Ness was pastor of the united 
churches in Queen's county from 17S5 to 1793, when he re- 
moved. 

The Rev. Zacharias H. Kuypers from 1794 to 1802. After 
this he is entered in the records of the Classis as pastor of 
" the churches of Queen's county," and he continued to preach 
at Success till he was dismissed from the Classis, and removed 
to New Jersey in 1825. 

In February 1802, the Rev. Jacob Schoonmaker, D.D., was 



SECT. 16.] fLATBUSH. 32i 

settled as the pastor of this church and that of Newtown. 
He graduated at Columbia college in 1799 and still remains 
in his Charge. 

The Rev. Garret I. Garretson was settled January 6th, 
1^-35, as collegiate pastor of this church, and that of New- 
town, in which relation he still continues. 

KING'S COUNTY. 

Section 16. — Flatbush. 

Number of acres improved, - - - 5,177 
" " unimproved, - - 5,423 

Ratio of population to the acre, 1 to 4f 

As all the churches of King's county constituted a colle- 
giate charge for the space of 150 years and were served by 
the same pastors ; and as the church of Flatbush was the 
mother church, its history necessarily involves that of the other 
towns. A full detail of its ecclesiastical concerns will super- 
sede the necessity of numerous repetitions in regard to the 
others. We therefore commence with this town. 

It is bounded on the north by Brooklyn, Bushwick,and 
Newtown ; on the east by Jamaica ; on the south by Jamaica 
Bay, Flatlands and New Utrecht ; and on the west by New 
Utrecht and Brooklyn. 

The township consists of two principal tracts which are 
distinguished by the names of Old Town and New Lots. 
The former includes the village of Flatbush, in nearly a cen- 
tral position which was the seat of the original settlement ; 
and the latter, besides the village of New Lots, embraces one 
of the paper cities of 1835 — 6, known by the name of East 
New York. 

The settlement of this town, which was first called 3Iid- 
wout (Middle- woods.) was probably commenced as early as 
any of the towns in this county, but as in the others, without 
any direct efforts to establish a town. Hence with the ex- 
ception of Gravesend, there is no evidence of a general 
patent for any of the towns in this county until near the 
close of the Dutch government. " The first purchase from 
the Indians on Long Island that has been discovered, was in 
the year 1635;" and "the earliest grant for lands in King's 
county that has been discovered, was in 1836." If these 
are facts, then the settlement of these parts of the island 
could have made little progress, beyond a few scattered fami- 
lies, previously to this time. Another consideration leads to 

14* 



322 ANNALS OP THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

the same conclusion. The early Dutch settlers were evidently- 
attached to the institutions of religion. It is therefore, deroga- 
tory to their character to suppose, that they would have lived 20 
years beyond the last mentioned date, without erecting a house 
for God and establishing the regular administration of gospel 
ordinances, if they had not been very few in number. 

The first patent for a portion of this town, including the 
site of the present village, was given by Governor Stuyve- 
sant in 1652, and several of the patentees named therein, 
were inhabitants of the city of New Amsterdam. By 
this instrument, they were authorized to found a settle- 
ment or town, with the privileges usually annexed to simi- 
lar communities established under the Dutch government. 
From this time, it is probable, the settlement received con- 
siderable accessions ; and a door was soon opened for the 
introduction of gospel privileges. 

The earliest evidence of any attempt to establish divine in- 
stitutions, in any of the Dutch towns on the island, is an order 
of Gov. Stuyvesant, (who appears to have exercised supreme 
authority in ecclesiastical as well as civil matters,*) under the 
date of Oct. 13th, 1654, " permitting the Rev. Johannes Theo- 
dorus Polhemus, to preach alternately at Midwout and Amers- 
fort, (Flatbush and Flatlands ) But as yet no house of wor- 
ship had been erected, nor any ecclesiastical organization 
formed in any of these settlements. The subsequent records 
of the church of Flatbush show that regular contributions, in 
connexion with public worship, began to be taken up in that 
place in Jan., 1655. " On the 6th of August following, the 
Governor ordered the sheriff' to convene the inhabitants of 
Breucklen, Midwout, and Amersfort, for the purpose of inquir- 
ing whether they were satisfied with their minister, and what 
salary they would pay him. The sheriff subsequently re- 
ported, that they approved of their minister, and would pay him 
a sum equal to $416 06 per year. This was approved as a 
good call, and accepted." All these facts go to prove that 
the organization of a church on the west end of the island 
must have been about this time, though the precise date can- 
not be ascertained. 

* As a matter of curiosity, and as further evidence of the power as- 
sumed by the Governor in ecclesiastical affairs, it may be remarked, that 
under date of Feb. 26th, 1654, an " ordinance was passed by the Gover- 
nor and Council, forbidding the keeping of Ash Wednesday and all other 
holy days, as heathenish and popish institutions, and as dangerous to the 
public peace." 



si'.ct. 16.] flatbush. 323 

Churches, &c. 

On the 15th of Dec, 1654, the governor issued an order, 
appointing- the Rev. Johannes Megapolensis, one of the min- 
isters of New Amsterdam, John Snedicor, and John Stryker, 
commissioners, to erect a church at Midwout ; and on the 
9th of Feb., 1G55, he issued another order, requiring the 
people of Breucklen and Amersfort to assist in building said 
church. By his order, the church was built in the form of a cross, 
23 by 60 or 65 feet, and 12 feet between the beams — the rear 
to be occupied as the minister's dwelling. It was probably so 
far advanced as to be used in the year 1655, though a final 
report of the commissioners was not made till 1660, when the 
whole cost was stated at 4,637 guilders, ($1,854 80.) Of this 
sum, a little more than one-sixth part was contributed by the 
parish, including the adjoining settlements. The greater part 
was raised by contributions from individuals and congrega- 
tions in other parts of the province, leaving a debt of 800 
guilders on the church. 

This house remained till near the close of the century. In 
the year 1698, a subscription was made by the inhabitants of 
the town, (including New Lots,) to the amount of 15,728 
guilders, (more than $6,000,) for the purpose of erecting a new 
church. At what precise period it was erected does not ap- 
pear. It was placed on the same site as the former, the walls 
of stone, 65 feet by 50, with a square roof, which was so badly 
constructed, that the walls were pressed considerably out of 
their position. The interior was not divided into pews or 
slips, but the people were seated on benches and chairs. 

In 1775, the interior of the church was remodeled, and pews 
erected, which were distributed by lot. 

In August, 1793, the congregation resolved unanimously to 
erect a new church, which was commenced near the close of 
the year, and completed in 1796. Its entire cost (exclusive 
of voluntary labour and cartage) was $12,1S3 44. It is a 
spacious building, and contains more than HO pews on the 
floor. A fine bell, imported from Holland, was presented by 
the Hon. John Vanderbilt, which, the second or third time it 
was used, was employed in tolling the knell of its liberal 
donor. 

In the winter of 1836-7, important improvements were 
made in the interior of the building, and it still remains one 
of the largest and most substantial church edifices on the 
island. 



324 ANXALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

In 1830-1, a consistory-room, for the accommodation of 
the Sabbath-school and other purposes, was erected by the 
congregation, at the expense of $1,195 82. 

Some years ago, a house of worship for the coloured people 
was erected between the Old Town and New Lots, near the 
dividing line of Flatbush and Flatland Neck. A regular so- 
ciety or church exists here, which is connected with the Afri- 
can M. E. Church. 

In 1836, an Episcopal church was erected in the village of 
Flatbush, and was consecrated on the 29th of December, in 
that year. 

A Methodist Episcopal church has been recently erected in 
the eastern part of the village. The date of its incorporation 
is May 21st, 1844. 

Under the English government, Gravesend had been the 
seat of justice for this part of the island ; but Nov. 7th, 1685, 
an act was passed by the Assembly, transferring the courts to 
Flatbush. 

In 1686, a Court-house was erected here, and this became 
the county town. A separate building was also reared for a 
jail. These remained till the winter of 1757-8, when, one 
of the buildings being»destroyed by fire, a new court-house, in- 
cluding the jail under the same roof, was erected in the fol- 
lowing season. The court-room was converted into a ball- 
room, by the British officers, during the Revolution. 

This building remained till 1792, when it became necessary 
to erect a new one, which was completed in 1793, upon a 
larger scale, the court-room and jail being, like the former, 
under one roof. 

On the 30th of Nov., 1832, this building also was destroyed 
by tire ; and from that time Flatbush ceased to be the county 
town. The courts and all judicial business were transferred 
to Brooklyn, where the great mass of population was con- 
centrated. 

From the early organization cf this town, the inhabitants had 
been careful to maintain a suitable school for the instruction 
of their children ; and a school-house and proper accommoda- 
tions for the teacher were deemed second only to the church 
and parsonage. The first teacher, of whom there is any record, 
was employed from 1659 to 1671, and several others continued 
in that occupation from 5 to 22 years. By giving him the 
office of town-clerk, sexton, and " Foresinger," or chorister, to 
each of which some perquisites were attached, they made him 
a very decent support, and brought the rates of tuition low. 



SECT. 16.] FLATBUSH. 325 

Instruction was confined to the Dutch language, till some- 
where between 1762 and 1773. The incumbent during that 
period, taught both Dutch and English, though it is not known 
at what date he introduced the latter. From 1776 to 1790, the 
school was taught by an English school-master ; and though he 
acquired the Dutch language to qualify himself as chorister, 
his scholastic instructions were confined to his own language. 

A classical school, distinct from the town school, was opened 
in this village, some some few years before the Revolution, 
and was patronised not only by the inhabitants, but by many 
of the citizens of New York. It was broken up by the war, 
having probably, however, awakened an interest that led to a 
more important institution, on the return of peace. 

In 1786, the Academy under the name of "Erasmus Hall" 
was erected, being 100 feet front and 36 rear, at a cost ex- 
ceeding $6,000. Its charter from the regents is dated Nov. 
20ih, 1787. It was the second academy incorporated in the 
State ; but it was for a long time, the first in the favour of the 
public, and in the success of its operations. Some of the best 
scholars in the country have been at its head ; and not a few 
of the most distinguished of our citizens, both in Church and 
State, received the elements of their education at this insti- 
tution. 

The original building remains, having been considerably 
improved, both in its external appearance and in its internal 
accommodations — as also the adjoining grounds. An addi- 
tional wing, of 50 by 25 feet, was erected in 1826-7, at an ex- 
pense of $1,500. It is furnished with a library of 1,500 volumes, 
a philosophical and chemical apparatus, and a mineralogical 
cabinet ; though to what extent and of what value we are not 
informed. 

Ministers of the Dutch Church. 

It has been previously stated, that by appointment of 
Gov. Stuyvesant, the Rev. Johannes Theodorus Polhemus, 
commenced his labours in the gospel ministry in Flatbush, 
and Flatlands, in the autumn of 1655. lie was from Holland, 
as all the Dutch ministers were for many years ; and he was 
considerably advanced in life, at the time of his appointment. 
He however, continued to labour more or less till his death, 
which took place June 8th, 1676. 

In 1660, the church of Brooklyn was permitted to send a 
call to " the fatherland" for another minister, and the Rev, 
Henricus tiulimus, (Henri/ Selicyn) came out, and was in* 



326 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART. 2, 

stalled at Brooklyn, by order of the Governor, and in the 
presence of his Fiscal, on the 3d of Sept. in that year. 
Although installed at this place, it is reasonable to infer from 
subsequent arrangements that he participated with Mr. Pol- 
hemus in the service of the other churches, as a collegiate 
pastor. He did not remain long in this charge ; but in July, 
1664, returned to Holland. After some years, we find him 
again in this country, as pastor of the Dutch church in New 
Amsterdam, which place he occupied from 1682 to 1700. 
He is said to have been a man of more than ordinary talent* 
and learning, and a very popular preacher. As evidence of 
this, an arrangement was made, while he remained at Brook- 
lyn, by which he preached at the Governor's house, every 
Sabbath afternoon. 

After Mr. Sel win's departure, the Rev. Johannes Megapo- 
Icnsis, pastor of the Dutch church in the city, assisted Mr. 
Polhemus in his extensive charge, till the death of the latter, 
in 1676. 

The Rev. Casparus Van Zuren was next' sent from Hol- 
land, and was installed Sept. 6th, 1677. All that is known of 
him, is that he was an industrious and systematic man. In 
1685 he returned to Holland, to resume his former charge. 

In a manuscript of the Rev. Peter Lowe, quoted by Mr. 
Wood, a " a Mr. Clark" is named as occupying this ground, 
after the departure of Mr. Van Zuren, but of him nothing is 
known. 

According to other accounts the Rev. Rudolphus Varick, 
succeeded Mr. Van Z iren, the same year, and continued till 
1694. 

The Rev. Wilhelmus Lupardus was called in the same, or 
the following year, and remained until his death which occur- 
red in 1701 or '2. 

The Rev. Bernardus Freeman was called from Schenectady, 
in 1702 ; but the opposition which was made to his removal, 
by the Governor, by the people of his charge, and a minority 
of the congregation of Flatbush, prevented his transfer for a 
considerable time; and he was not installed till Nov. 1705. 
The installation services took place at New Utrecht. 

The Rev. Vincentius Antonides was sent over by the Classis 
of Amsterdam, in the autumn of 1704, an application having 
been previously made for a minister. He arrived and en- 
tered upon his labours, about the same time with Mr. Freeman's 
settlement. 

For a number of years, an unhappy controversy, originat- 



SECT. 16.] FLATBUSH. 327 

ing in the settlement of these gentlemen, continued to agi- 
tate the churches, and even arose so high, as to call for the 
interposition of the civil authorities. This, however, was 
happily terminated by a meeting of delegates from all the 
congregations in 1714, who mutually agreed to lay aside their 
differences, and acknowledge Messrs. Freeman and Antonides 
as their ministers. At this time, the number of collegiate 
churches had greatly increased. Bushwick, Flatbush, Flat- 
lands, Brooklyn, New Utrecht, and even Jamaica, were all 
included in the charge ; and both the ministers resided at 
Flatbush. They had the reputation of being men of res- 
pectable talents and acquirements. Mr. Freeman distin- 
guished himself, both as a preacher and writer. Several of 
his productions were published during his life-time, and others 
were left behind. 

During their ministry, the question respecting the organi- 
zation of a Coetus, or Assembly of Ministers and Elders in 
this country, subordinate to the Classis of Amsterdam, was 
brought forward, and agitated the churches for many years ; 
of which some particulars will be given hereafter. 

Mr. Freeman died in 1741, and was succeeded by the Rev. 
Johannes Arondeus, in 1742. Mr. Antonides died in 1744, 
and was succeeded by the Rev. Ulpianus Van Sinderin, in 
1746. 

Mr. Arondeus died in 1754, and was succeeded by the Rev. 
Anthony Curtenius in 1755, who died in the autumn of 1756, 
at the age of 58 years. 

The Rev. Johannes Casparus Rubel was called in 1759, 
and continued as colleague with Mr. Van Sinderin, till after 
the close of the revolutionary war. They differed extremely 
in their political views. Mr. Van Sinderin was a firm whig, 
and Mr. Rubel as decided a loyalist. The same difference, 
to some extent, existed in the several congregations, and each 
minister had his partisans, which necessarily produced an 
uncomfortable state of things in the several towns. 

In 1784, Mr. Van Sinderin, at the request of the Consistory, 
resigned his pastoral charge, though a stated salary was paid 
him, till his death, which took place July 23, 1796. He was 
a learned, but eccentric man, and therefore, it is not strange 
that he was considered " deficient in sound judgment." Who 
ever saw eccentricity of character and a sound judgment 
combined in the same individual ? 

Early in the same year, Mr. Rubel was deposed from the 
ministry, and remained under the censure, till his death which 
occurred in 1799. 



328 AXNALS Of THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

The Rev. Martimis Schoonmaker, who was officiating at 
Harlaem and Gravesend, was called in 1785 to take the charge 
of the collegiate churches in this county, to which Gravesend 
was then added. He died May 20th, 1824, aged 87. 

The Rev. Peter Lowe was ordained Oct. 28th, 1787, as 
colleague to Mr. Schoonmaker. 

In 1792, it was resolved that divine service, which had 
heretofore bean maintained in the Dutch language, should be 
thereafter performed in English in the afternoon, whenever 
Mr. Lowe should preach at Brooklyn, Flalbush and New 
Utrecht. But Mr. Schoonmaker continued to preach in Dutch, 
to the time of his death, having never attempted to preach in 
English but once (in 17S8.) 

The collegiate charge of these churches, which had existed 
about 150 years, was gradually given up, after the commence- 
ment of the present century. In lfc>05, the church of Brook- 
lyn called a pastor to have the exclusive charge of that church. 
In 18**8, Mr. Lowe was called to the sole charge of Flatbush 
and Flatlands. The other churches, however, were not all 
furnished with separate pastors, until after the death of Mr. 
Schoonmaker. 

Mr. Lowe, whoTiad the reputation of fervent piety, and 
great usefulness, died June 10th, 1818, aged 54 years, 1 month, 
and 10 days. 

The Rev. Walter Monteith was installed pastor of Flatbush 
and Flatlands, in Jan. 1819 ; but he resigned his charge 
April 13th, 1820 ; having received a call to the Presbyterian 
Church in Schenectady. 

The union between Flatbush and Flatlands was dissolved 
May 1st, 1822. 

The Rev. Thomas M. Strong, D.D., the present pastor, 
was installed Nov. 17th, 1822, with the exclusive charge of 
Flatbush. 

Ministers of the Episcopal Church. 

The Rev. Thomas S. Brittain was inducted Dec. 23rd, 
1836, as the first rector, and resigned March 29ih, 1838. 

The Rev. James Coghlan succeeded, and resigned Oct. 21st, 
1839. 

In March, 1840, the Rev. William Barlow, was inducted. 

The Rev. W. H. Newman is the present rector. 
New Lots. 

A church edifice was commenced in this part of the town, 
in 1823, and dedicated in 1824. A distinct church was or- 
ganized there in August of that year. 



SECT. 16.] FIATBUSH. 329 

In Feb. 1825, the Rev. William Crookshank was ordained 
pastor of this church, and that of Flatlands. He was dis- 
missed in April, 1835. 

The Rev. J. Abeel Baldwin was ordained March 22nd, 
1836, and continues in the charge of both congregations. 

East New- York. 

A church was organized here, Jan. 7th, 1840, an edifice 
having been previously erected. 

In May, 1841', the Rev. William H. Campbell was installed 
pastor, and was dismissed in the autumn of 1S41. 

The Rev. M. V. Schoonmalcer was ordained pastor, Sept. 



For nearly 100 years, the Reformed Dutch Church in this 
country enjoyed quietness and peace, under the government 
of the Classis of Amsterdam, from which source they had 
received all their ministerial supplies, from the first settlement 
of the province. But in the former part of the last century, 
a most unhappy controversy arose which continued to agi- 
tate them for more than 30 years. The question in dispute 
was, the propriety and expediency of casting off their depend- 
ence on the churches of the father-land, and the establishment 
of an independent ecclesiastical organization. Those, who 
were in favour of this measure, were styled the " Ccetus par- 
ty ;" and the opposers, the "Conference party." " So divided 
and embittered against each other did they become, that the 
different parties would not worship together, nor even speak to 
each other. The ministers, and as a necessary consequence, the 
churches, were divided, on this question ; and the controversy 
was carried on, with all the acrimony, that existed in any 
other part of the country. It is related that two of the inha- 
bitants of Flalbush, who belonged to opposite parties, hap- 
pened to meet on the highway, in their waggons ; and each 
being determined not to turn out for the other, after driving 
their horses up head to head, they took out their pipes and to- 
bacco, and commenced smoking. The record does not state 
how the affair terminated, or whether they are still in the 
road. — It is also asserted, that in one instance, at least, the 
consummation of a marriage was entirely frustrated, merely 
because the parlies to the contract, being on different sides in 
the church, could not agree on the *• dominie," who should 
have the honour of joining their hands. 



330 ANNALS OP THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

But collisions and contentions, of a more serious nature, 
sometimes occurred, which actually called for the interference 
of the civil authorities. In more instances than one, the Go- 
vernor in council was constrained to issue orders, to quell 
these disturbances. 

The extreme bigotry and intolerance of the Conferentie 
party were most strikingly exhibited, in the settlement of the 
first Dutch minister, at Jamaica, in Queen's County. The 
Rev. Mr. Goetschius, who had been regularly ordained to the 
gospel ministry, by the German Reformed Church in Penn- 
sylvania, was called to this charge. The Conferentie party, 
professing to believe, that " no ministerial ordination was va- 
lid, unless obtained in Holland, from the mother-church, or 
by express permission of that church," refused to recognise 
him as a minister, unless he would submit to a re-ordination. 
It is a remarkable evidence of condescension, on the part of 
this good man, especially in the heat of such a controversy, 
though its correctness, as a point of gospel order, is exceed- 
ingly questionable, that, for the sake of peace, he submitted 
to be re-ordained. But even this concession did not secure 
him permanent favour with the opposing party. After re- 
maining here 10 years, he removed to Hackensack, N. J., 
where he met with the most determined opposition from the 
same quarter. The doors of the church were often found 
locked and barred against him and his adherents, on the sab- 
bath-day ; and he was compelled frequently to preach in 
barns and private houses, and under shady trees. " On one oc- 
casion, when Mr. Goetschius had obtained access to the pul- 
pit, the clerk, or chorister, (who, in those days, read the ten 
commandments, — a chapter from the Bible, and gave out 
the first psalm or hymn,) in order to prevent the minister, 
who was in the pulpit, from preaching, gave out the 119th 
Psalm, to be sung by the congregation, from beginning to 
end ; which, according to the mode of Dutch singing, would 
have occupied the whole day, and the poor minister would 
have had no chance of a hearing ; but, fortunately, he had 
courage enough to withstand and resist this novel proceeding." 
And here, his second ordination was called in question, be- 
cause it had not been obtained in Holland, nor by express per- 
mission from the mother church ; and " many of the infants he 
had baptized, in those churches, were re-baptized, by minis- 
ters of that party ; the parents and others having been led to 
question the validity of the ordinance, as administered by 
him." 



SECT. 17.] FLATLANDS. 331 

These occurrences plainly show how this unhappy contro- 
versy was carried on, with little variation of spirit or overt 
acts, throughout the bounds of the Dutch church. 

In 1737, the first meeting of ministers was held in the city 
of New York, for the purpose of considering the question of 
an independent organization ; at which, a plan for establishing 
a Ccetus or Assembly of Ministers and Elders in this country, 
was formed and submitted to the church for their considera- 
tion and opinion. 

The meeting was assembled again April, 27th, 1738 ; and 
the plan having been generally approved by the churches, was 
finally adopted, and ordered to be sent over to the Classis of 
Amsterdam for their approbation. 

It was several years before anything definitive was heard 
on the subject; but in 1746, ^letter was received from the 
Classis of Amsterdam, containing their approval of the plan. 
In May, 1747, a meeting was held in the city, to act officially 
on this letter ; and the first Ccetus was appointed to be held 
in September following. Thus the independent organization 
of the Reformed Dutch Church was made in this country. 
But although it was effected with the entire approbation of the 
mother-church, it was still opposed by several ministers and 
churches; whereby the controversy was kept up, with the 
most unhappy consequences, for many years afterwards ; till 
about the year 1772, it ceased to agitate the public mind. 
Since that time harmony and peace have generally charac- 
terized the churches of this denomination on the island, as 
also in the country at large. 



Section 17.— FLATLANDS. 

Number of acres improved, ... - 2,881 
" " unimproved, - - - 6,119 

Ratio of population to the acre, 1 to 9i. 
This town, originally called by the Dutch Amersfort, is 
bounded on the north by Flatbush, east by Flatbush and 
Jamaica Bay, south by the Bay, and west by Gravesend. 
Barren Island, which lies in Jamaica Bay, belongs to this town. 
There is nothing peculiar in the early history of the place. 
Its settlement was commenced in the same manner as in the 
adjoining towns, and gradually increased, till something like 
the enjoyment of municipal privileges was accorded by the 
government. As early as 1660, the Governor appointed 



232 A.NNALS OF TIIE TOWNS. [pAKT 2, 

magistrates out of a list furnished by the inhabitants. But no 
general patent was given, till after the province passed into 
the hands of the English. 

The establishment of the preaching of the gospel here was 
simultaneous with that of Fiatbush, as Mr. Polhemus was 
directed by the Governor to preach alternately at Midwout 
and Amersfort. And in the building of the first church at 
Fiatbush, the people of this place were required to assist. It 
is therefore to be inferred, that no distinct ecclesiastical 
organization was formed in this town till a subsequent date. 

The surface of the town, as its name imports, is remarkably 
smooth and nearly level. Excepting a large salt marsh on 
its south eastern border, the soil is a sandy loam, that is well 
cultivated, and productive. 

The people are remarkable, for their quiet, peaceable and 
friendly demeanour. Contentions and litigation are scarcely 
known among them. 

The village of Flatlands is situated about 2 miles south of 
Fiatbush, and a little short of that distance from the Bay. 

Churches. 

The first house ofrpublic worship was ordered to be erected 
in 1662, and was probably built in the succeeding year. 

It is said that this house was rebuilt in the course of the 
last century, but of this the writer could obtain no positive 
information in the place. 

The existing church was erected about the year 1S04. 

A Protestant Methodist church was built a year or two 
since, on the Neck, which still bears the aboriginal name of 
Canarsce, or as now called Canausie, about 2 miles south-east 
of the village. 

Ministers. 

The first ministers of this church were the collegiate pas- 
tors of the churches in the " Five Dutch Towns,' ; whose 
names and period of service have been recorded in the annals 
of Fiatbush. They divided their labours among the several 
congregations on an established scale, according to which, 
each contributed its due proportion to the support of divine 
institutions. 

About 40 years ago a disposition was manifested to abandon 
this plan of ministerial service, and by degrees, each church 
able to support a pastor, made their own separate arrangements 
for that purpose. 

In 1808, the Rev. Peter Lowe who had been one of the 



SECT. 18.] GRAVESEND. 333 

collegiate pastors from 1787, was invited to take the exclusive 
charge of the churches of Flatbush and Flatlands, which he 
accepted and held till his death. 

The Rev. Walter Monteith was installed pastor of these two 
churches, on the first Sabbath in Jan. 1819, and was dismissed 
April 13th in the following year. 

The connexion of this church with that of Flatbush being 
dissolved, the congregation remained vacant for some years. 
At length it united with the church organized at New Lots, in 
calling the Rev. William Crookshank, who was ordained thoir 
pastor Feb. 6th, 1825. lie remained in the charge, till April 
14th, 1835, when he was dismissed. 

The Rev. J. Abeel Baldwin was ordained March 22nd, 
1836, and remains in the charge of both congregations. 



Section IS— GRAVESEND. 

Number of acres improved, . . - . 2,5S7 
" ." unimproved, - - - 6,913 

Ration of population to the acre, 1 to 10^. 

This is the most southern town in King's County, and in- 
deed of any part of Long Island. Its form is nearly triangular, 
two of its sides being straight lines, proceeding from a point 
on the south line of Flatbush, in a south-easterly and south- 
westerly direction to the sea. It is therefore bounded on the 
north-west by New Utrecht, on the north-east by Flatlands, 
and on the south by the ocean. It includes that strand in the 
sea now called Coney Island, formerly Conyne or Conynen 
Island, which is connected to the mam land by a toll-bridge. 
The western end of this island is supposed to be the spot, where 
John Coleman, one of Sir Henry Hudson's crew, was buried, 
(having been killed by an arrow from the natives,) and was 
called Coleman's Point. It is not improbable, that the corrup- 
tion of this name may have led to the present appellation. 
It has become a place of great resort in the hot season, for 
the luxury of sea-bathing, and the enjoyment of the ocean air. 

The surface of this town is low and fiat — the soil light 
and sanely, and a large portion consists of salt meadows and 
marshes. But little more than one-third of its whole territory 
is under cultivation or regarded as arable. 

This, unlike the other towns of this county, was settled 
almost exclusively by English people, the first company of 



334 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

whom came from Massachusetts, whence they were induced 
to flee, by the spirit of intolerance which began early to mani- 
fest itself in that infant colony. 

The first patentee of a single farm, within the bounds of this 
town, was Antonie Jansen de Sake, of whom more particular 
mention will be made hereafter. His first grant, which is to 
be found in the state archives at Albany, was dated Aug. 1st, 
1639, and covers " 100 morgens (nearly 200 acres) of land, 
lying on the bay, over against Conyne Island." Whether he 
took immediate possession, and entered upon the cultivation 
of his farm does not appear. But another patent was issued 
by Gov. Kieft to the same individual, for the same tract, under 
date of May 27th, 1643. Another grant, adjoining that of 
Jansen's, was given about this time, to Robert Pennoyer, who 
also was probably a descendant of the French exiles. Both 
these farms were situated in the south-west corner of the town. 

But a general patent for the whole town, (exclusive of these 
individual grants,) was issued DgJc. 19th, 1645, in favour of 
Lady Deborah Moody, Sir Henry Dfcoody, Ensign George Bax- 
ter and Sergeant James Hubbard, their heirs and successors, 
authorizing them " to, build a town with such necessary fortifi- 
cations as to them may seem expedient — to have and enjoy 
free liberty of conscience, according to the customs and 
manners of Holland, without molestation — to establish courts 
and elect magistrates, to try all causes not exceeding 50 Hol- 
land guilders." It would have been for the honour of the 
government if this pledge had been redeemed. 

These patentees and their associates had come from Mas- 
sachusetts, whence they had been driven by persecution raised 
against Roger Williams and his followers. Lady Moody had 
come over to that colony in 1640, and settled at Lynn, where 
she united with the church, and received a grant of 400 acres 
of land ; in addition to which, she had purchased a large estate, 
called Svvanscut, which had previously belonged to Deputy 
Gov. Humphrey. She was a woman of consequence, and 
was treated with great respect till she fell under discipline and 
was excommunicated from the church, for some religious sen- 
timents deemed heretical. When her intention to seek an 
asylum in the Dutch colony was known, she was strongly 
dissuaded from the undertaking, but without effect. It ap- 
pears, however, that on her way she made a stop at Newhaven, 
where she fell into new difficulties, in consequence of having 
made some converts to her new opinions. At length, accom- 
panied with a number of persons of both sexes, who sympa- 



SECT. 18.] GRAVESEND. 335 

thized with her, she left the land of steady habits, and made 
an establishment under the Dutch government. 

And here it is necessary to correct a mistake, which has 
been so often repeated as to be generally believed on Long 
Island. It has been frequently asserted, that Lady Moody 
and her associates, who commenced the settlement of Graves- 
end in 1645, were Friends or Quakers, and that they actually 
fled from the Quaker persecution in Massachusetts, and sought 
an asylum in this retired town. When Lady Moody left Eng- 
land, George Fox, the founder of the new sect, was only 16 
years of age, an apprentice to a grazier, and was as little 
known beyond the family circle, as most lads of that age ; 
and it was not till 2 years after the colony settled Gravesend, 
that he commenced his public ministry — and several years 
afterwards, before he organized his followers into regular soci- 
eties in that kingdom. It will also be recollected, that Lady 
Moody's troubles in New England originated, not in the adop- 
tion of any of the peculiar ^sentiments afterwards embraced 
by that denomination, but simply for the denial of infant bap- 
tism, which, at that time, had become a matter of warm dis- 
cussion in Massachusetts. It was the same sentiment that 
involved her in difficulty after she came to Gravesend ; and 
it will be particularly observed, that, when she was arraigned 
before the Dutch authorities at New Amsterdam, she was 
charged, not with denying the ordinance of baptism, but 
merely with saying, that " infant baptism was no ordinance of 
God" No doubt these peculiar views, which she and proba- 
bly many of her associates entertained, confirmed as they had 
been, instead of being corrected, by the harsh treatment which 
they received in both provinces, prepared the way for many 
of them to adopt the Quaker system when it was subsequently 
introduced among them. But it was impossible that they 
should have had any knowledge of a sect, that was not in ex- 
istence, at the time of their coming to the island. 

Of the subsequent history ofthisdistinguished individual, whom 
Judge Benson dignifies with the appellation of a second "Dido," 
leading a colony into an unknown land, very little is known. 
Although her religious sentiments, at first, rendered her obnox- 
ious to the Dutch government, she subsequently appears to 
have been quite in the good graces of the Governor. Upon a 
disagreement between him and the people of Gravesend, con- 
cerning the appointment of their magistrates, he, with his 
council, condescended to hold a meeting at her house, Nov. 



336 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

23d, 1654, and finally submitted the appointments entirely to 
her decision. 

Whether she ever actually became a disciple of George Fox 
does not appear. Though the step is not rendered improbable 
by her previous history, there is no direct evidence of the fact. 
And it is a matter of surprise and regret, that nothing is 
known of the time of her decease. That she was living in 
1665, is evident from the record of a resolution of the Gover- 
nor in council, under the date of June 18th, by which she 
again received the honour, " as eldest and first patentee, to 
make a nomination of magistrates for the town." And there 
is a deed on the town records, dated " Maye 11. 1659," given 
by her son Henry Mody, (as he signs his name,) conveying 
to John Johnson ** a certain parcell of land, with the housing," 
which he describes as having been received " from his deceased 
mother, Deborah Modye." Her death must have occurred be- 
tween the two last mentioned periods ; but no record has pre- 
served the date, and no monument marks the place of her in- 
terment, or perpetuates the memoir of her name. 

It is worthy of remark here, that the patent of this town is 
the first general patent given on the west end of the island, in 
which the patentees are recognised as a political community, 
and by which the powers of municipal government are con- 
ferred. The records of the town, which are still preserved 
almost entire, commence with the year 1015 ; and the elec- 
tion of town officers, though occasionally attempted to be con- 
trolled by the Governor, was claimed and exercised by the 
people. Unlike the " Five Dutch Towns," which constituted 
the residue of the county, these records were kept from the 
commencement of the settlement, in the English language. 

The settlement of the town appears to have advanced with 
unusual vigour — as in 1656, only 11 years from its com- 
mencement, it contained between 60 and 70 landholders. 
The town plat or village was laid out with a great deal of 
taste, in a circular form, with avenues and streets proceeding 
through the centre. A correct plan is retained to the present 
day, as an article of curiosity. The design of its framers was 
never executed ; they appear to have intended it as the found- 
ation of a great mercantile city, for which they erroneously 
supposed the locality presented peculiar advantages. But the 
city perished with its founders. 

It is due to the people of this town to give <he following 
testimony of their loyalty to the government, and their regard 



SECT. 18.] GRAVESEND. 837 

for good morals, notwithstanding the discrepancy of their re- 
ligious views : — 

" Whereas thier is a prohibition expresse by an order from 
y 6 Govern 1 ", of all such exercises upon y e first day of y e 
week, as gunning, ball-playing horse-races, nine-pins, exces- 
sive drinking and royetting, with others y e like, which greatly 
tende to y e dishonour of God, y e hindrance of many from and 
in religious duties, to the reproach of y e Governm* and shame 
of the place, for y e prevention whereoff, y e officers of this 
towne, according to their duty, have given due notice, that 
what person soever shall in the like transgresse, shall pay 10s. 
and answer it before v e Governor. This act proclaimed y e 
13 of 8th month 1675." fc J 

A law was also passed in town-meeting, " that whoever 
should transgress, in word or deed, in defaming, scandalizing, 
slandering or falsely accusing any one, should receive such 
condign punishment as should be thought meet by the magis- 
trates, either by fine, imprisonment, stocking, or standing at a 
public post." 

Shortly after the surrender of the province to the English 
government and the establishment of the ridings, this town 
was made the seat of justice — a Court-house was erected 
in 166'S, and the courts were regularly held here until 1686, 
when they were removed to Flatbush. 

The boundary line between this town and New Utrecht 
has been a matter of dispute and protracted litigation for 
many years, and still remains unadjusted. 

Churches, &c. 

Of the early religious history of this town, very little au- 
thentic information has been obtained and the subject is in- 
volved in doubt and uncertainty. 

It is known that soon after the quakers came upon the isl- 
and, about the year 1657, this was one of the towns in which 
their system met with peculiar favour. Many of the inhabi- 
tants readily embraced their doctrines and discipline, and one 
of the first regular meetings on the island was organized, and 
maintained here for many years. Records of this fact, it is 
said, still remain : though there is no evidence that they ever 
erected a house of worship. It will be recollected, that George 
Fox, when upon his eastern tour, both going and returning, 
visited this place, and held meetings, which were numerously 
attended. 

15 



333 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

And here, though a matter of small importance, it may be 
worth while to correct a mistake fallen into by Sewel, the 
historian of that denomination. Speaking of this journey 
of Fox, he says, »* He went also to the town, formerly called 
New Amsterdam, which name is now changed unto that of 
New-York. Here he lodged at the Governor's house, and had 
also a meeting there.''' Now, it is manifest from Fox's Journal, 
though no reason is assigned for the fact, that he never en- 
tered New- York ; nor even mentions that city, except in con- 
nection with the meeting at Gravesend, which, he says, would 
have been attended by people from New-York, if the state of 
the weather had not prevented. Besides this, the fact is still 
handed down, and often spoken of by the Friends of the pre- 
sent day, that Fox purposely avoided the city of New- York. 
There is no way to account for this obvious mistake, but by 
supposing, that Sewel has inadyertently transferred the atten- 
tions which Fox received in Rhode Island to New-York. Pos- 
sibly he supposed, that that city was in New England. Great- 
er geographical blunders in regard to America are still made 
by English writers, even at the present day. 

There is equal difficulty in tracing the origin of the Reform- 
ed Dutch Church in this town, or ascertaining at what period 
the first house of worship was erected. It has been supposed, 
that the first erection was made soon after that at Flat bush ; 
but the writer has been unable to find any evidence of the 
fact. And there are several circumstances which render such 
a conclusion highly improbable. 

The first settlers of this town being almost exclusively 
English, the church that was first organized, seems to have 
had no connexion with the churches of the Dutch towns, till 
after the revolutionary war ; probably because the most of the 
inhabitants could not understand their language. If then, 
they had a church organization at an early period among 
them, they must have derived their supplies from some other 
source. It is also a singular fact that the town records, which 
cover a period of 2'JO years, and are nearly entire, afford not 
the least intimation of a church being erected at an early 
date. And it is remarkable, that the plan of the settlement, 
previously mentioned, has no^designated site for a house of 
worship. It aiso appears, that from 16^4 to the end of that 
century, marriages were usually performed by the civil magis- 
trate, of which there are numerous records on the town books ; 
and occasionally, by ministers, who are expressly mentioned 
as belonging to other towns. For example : — 



SECT. IS.] GRAVESETJD. 339 

" Oct. 20th day 16£3, Abraham Emans & Rebecca Still- 
well pronounced man and wife, by y e Domine Rudolphus Ver- 
ryck att flattbusch." 

" Nov. 4th day 1693, Andrew Emans and Rebecca Van 
Cleefe pronounced man and wife, by y e Domine Rudolphus 
Verryck, flattbusch." 

From these and other circumstances it seems very question- 
able, whether there was any ecclesiastical organization or 
house of worship in this town, until the latter part of the 
17th century. 

The precise date of the second erection is also veiled in 
obscurity. Nicholas Stilhvell, Esq., who has been for many 
years Town Clerk, informed the writer that his kinsman, Rut- 
gert Stilhvell, who died Oct. 9th, 1823, at the age of 76, had 
often informed him " that when he was a schoo!-boy, and at- 
tended school in the vicinity, the second church was in build- 
ing : — that it was smaller than the former, as he noticed the 
new sills lying within the old ones : and that these remarks 
were the result of frequent observatipn, as he was in the habit 
of going within the enclosure to eat his dinner." This 
would bring the date of the second building not far from 1760. 

The present edifice was erected in 1833, on nearly the same 
site with the former. 

Ministers. 

In 1785, the Rev. Martinus Schoonmaker wa^ ministering 
to the church of Gravesend, in connexion with that of Har- 
laem. From this it is to be inferred, that a church had been 
previously organized in the town, and also that it was not 
connected with the collegiate Dutch churches in the other 
towns. Upon Mr. Schoon maker's accepting the call to the 
collegiate charge, the church of Gravesend was admitted into 
the compact, and participated in the labours of the several 
pastors, from that time till the dissolution of that connexion. 
Mr. Schoonmaker died, as previously stated, in 1824. 

For several years after this time, the church remained des- 
titute of a pastor and was supplied more or less by appoint- 
ments from the Classis. 

The Rev. Isaac P. Labagh was settled Nov. 7th, 1832, 
and was dismissed Nov. 7th. 1842. Since that time he 
has embraced some peculiar sentiments on the second ad- 
vent and the christian sabbath ; for which, being summoned 
before the Classis, and refusing to submit to their authority, 
he was suspended from the ministry. 



340 ANNALS OP THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

The Rev. Abraham I. Labagh succeeded to the pastoral 
charge of this church Jan. 22d, 1843, and remains in that 
relation. 

In the south-east part of the town, at a place called the 
Cove., a Methodist Protestant Church was erected in 1844, 
and incorporated July 24th, the same year. 

Another Methodist church was erected, about the same time, 
in the south-west corner of the town, near the Fishing Beach, 
which was incorporated Aug. 14th, 1844, under the style of 
the " Fishermen's Meth. Epis. Church." 

Section 19.— NEW UTRECHT. 

Number of acres improved, - - - 4,009 
" " unimproved, - - - 1,191 

Ratio of population to the acre, 1 to 3, nearly. 

This town is bounded on the north by Brooklyn and Flat- 
bush — and on the east, by Gravesend — on the south, by the 
Bay, and on the west, by the Narrows. 

Fort Hamilton,-^ United States fortification, is situated 
on the western extremity of the town. Fort La Fayette 
(otherwise called Fort Diamond, from its form) is built in the 
water, a short distance from the Long Is!and shore. These 
together with Fort Tompkins, Hudson and Richmond on 
Staten Island, form a strong defence of the Narrows, which 
are here about a mile and a half wide. 

The settlement of this town was commenced by about 20 
Dutch families in 1654. In 1660, on application to the Gover- 
nor, certain officers were appointed to maintain some sort 
of government in the infant community. 

In 1662, the Governor gave a patent to the town, autho- 
rizing the inhabitants to elect magistrates, subject to his ap- 
proval, with power to hold courts having civil jurisdiction in 
all causes not exceeding the amount of £5 ; and in criminal 
cases of the degree of petit larceny. A new patent was given 
in 1668 by Gov. Nicolls under the English government, 
which was renewed by Gov. Dongan in 1686. 

The repeated requirement of the colonies, to renew their 
patents, was not one of the least impositions practised by the 
English Governors : and the exorbitant fees which they ex- 
torted from the people on these occasions, was undoubtedly 
the principal reason for the requisition. Some of the towns 
strenuously resisted the order, but the threat of a forfeiture of 
their lands, generally forced compliance. 



SECT. 19.] NEW UTRECHT. 341 

The village of New Utrecht is situated in the eastern part 
of the town, about 2 miles east of Fort Hamilton, and 2 miles 
south-west of Flatbush. 

Bath is the name of a watering establishment less than a 
mile south of the village, beautifully situated on the shore of 
the Bay. 

This town, as well as others, particularly in this county, is 
rendered memorable by many revolutionary incidents, a par- 
ticular detail of which does not come within the design of this 
work. It may, however, be remarked in passing, that it was 
in this town that the British army, under Gen. Howe, effected 
their landing, Aug. 22nd, 1776, the week before the disastrous 
battle of Long Island. And in this village the old stone-house 
is still standing, in which Gen. Nathaniel Woodhull expired in 
consequence of his wounds, Sept. 20th, 1776. This remark- 
able mansion, covered with tiles imported from Holland, has 
stood nearly a century and a half, and is one of the oldest 
on the island. 

Churches. 

For a long time after the settlement of this town, the inha. 
bitants had no separate ecclesiastical organization, but attended 
worship at Flatbush. The formation of a distinct church 
appears to have taken place about the year 1677, as the first 
election of Elders and Deacons was made in October of that 
year. A separate house of worship was not erected till about 
the year 17U0. This building was of stone in the usual octa- 
gonal form. It was occupied by the British during the war, 
as a hospital or prison. In 1783, it underwent considerable re- 
pairs, and was again devoted to its original purpose during 
more than 40 years. 

In 182S, it was taken down, and the present edifice erected 
of the same materials, which was dedicated, Aug. 26lh, 1829. 

In 1835, an Episcopal Church, under the style of St. John's, 
was erected in the vicinity of Fort Hamilton. 

In 1844, a Methodist Church was erected at Yellow Hook, 
near the north-west corner of the town. 

Ministers. 

The early ministers were, of course, the pastors of the 
collegiate churches of the county, this being one of them. 
The installation of Mr. Freeman in 1705 took place, by order 
of the Governor, in the Church of this town, whether, on 



342 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

account of the opposition in Flatbush, to his settlement, or for 
the particular gratification of this congregation, is not known. 

The collegiate compact being dissolved, the Rev. JohnBeatie 
was settled as the pastor of this church in 1809. He was dis- 
missed Oct. 14th, 1834. 

The Rev. Robert O. Currie, the present pastor, was ordained 
Feb. 15th, 1935. 

The Rev. James D. Carder, the Chaplain of the Military- 
station at Fort Hamilton, is rector of the Episcopal church 
there, and his charge consists of the United States troops, 
connected with the fortifications at the Narrows, and also of 
families residing in that vicinity. 

Section 20.— BUSHWICK. 

Number of acres improved, - - - 2,6C0 
'* " unimproved, - - - 1,334 

Ratio of population to the acre, 1 to 2. 

This town is bounded on the north and east by Newtown 
in Queen's county, on the south by Flatbush, and on the 
west by Brooklyn, Williamsburgh and the East River. Ori- 
ginally Williamsburgh constituted a part of this township. 

Though scattered families may have located themselves 
on this territory as early as in the adjacent towns, there is no 
evidence of any attempt to lay out a regular settlement, or 
organize a town, until the year 1060 : nor is it known, that 
the town ever received a patent from the Dutch government. 

The town records commence about this time, from which 
the following extracts have been translated by Gen. Jeremiah 
Johnson : — 

"Feb. 14th, 1660, Peter Stuyvesant, Director General and 
his High Council of the New Netherlands, Ordain, that the 
outside residents who dwell distant from each other, must re- 
move and concentrate themselves within the neighbouring 
towns, and dwell in the same, because we have war with the 
Indians, who have slain several of our Netherland people. 

"Feb. 16th. As fourteen Frenchmen, with a Dutchman 
named Peter John Dewit, their interpreter, have arrived here, 
and as they do not understand the Dutch language, they have 
been with the Director General, and requested him to cause 
a town plot to be laid out at a proper place ; whereupon his 
Honour fixed upon the 19th inst., to visit the place and fix 
upon a site. 

"Feb. 19th. On this day the Director General, with the 



SECT. 20.] BUSHWICK. 343 

Fiscal, Nicarius D. Silla, and his Honour Ser. Van Rauven, 
with the sworn surveyor Jaques Oorlear came to Mispat 
(now Maspeth,) and have fixed upon a place between Mispat 
Hill and Norman's Hill, to establish a village, and have laid 
out by survey twenty-two house lots, on which dwelling 
houses are to be built. 

li March 7th. The first house being erected near the 
Pond, William Traphagen, with his family, and Koert 
Mourison came to dwell in the same. Other houses were 
erected during the year. 

" March 14th, 1661. The Director General visited the 
new village, when the inhabitants requested his honor to 
give the place a name; whereupon he named the town 
Boswijck, (Boswyck.)" 

At this time the order was renewed, 

"That all the citizens who dwell within the limits and 
jurisdiction of the town of Boswijck. and already have vil- 
lage 1 * f s, shall remove to the same, according to the or- 
der ci the Director General." And it is added, 

" That all persons whatsoever, who dwell outside of the 
village, a! iend to the danger they may be in, by remain- 
ing v, here they be." 

By order of the Governor, six men were chosen by 
the people* from whom he selected three, viz., Peter Jans 
Dewidt, Jan Tilje and Jan Comlits, to whom he committed 
the provisional administration of the justice of the village. 

In the preceding records 24 names appear, and in a muster 
roll, dated June 14th, 1663, there are 40 names, including 14 
that appear to be French, of both which the translator re- 
marks as a singular fact, " that there is not a person now liv- 
ing in the town of Bushwick bearing the surname of any of 
these persons." 

The preceding extracts plainly show, that many of the first 
settlers of this town, as of some of the other towns on this part 
of the island, were French ; most probably the immediate 
descendants of French huguenots, who had fled from their 
native country, to escape the bloody persecution that had been 
commenced in the latter part of the preceding century, and 
was continued, with more or less violence, nearly 30 years. * 

* The massacre of the memorable St. Bartholomew's day, was Aug. 
24th, 1572 — and the edict of Nantes, by virtue of which the French 
Protestants enjoyed a temporary respite, was issued by Henry IV., in 
1598. The revocation of that edict by Louis XIV. in 1685, caused an- 
other emigration of the huguenots to this country, some of whom also 
settled on Long Island. 



344 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

They first fled into Holland, where they enjoyed a temporary 
asylum from the rage of the oppressor. But, as in the case of 
the English puritans, who shortly after fled to the same coun- 
try, for a similar cause, the dissimilarity of language, manners 
and customs prevented them from regarding it as a permanent 
home. Hence, upon the opening of the New World, at the 
commencement of the 17th century, many of the younger 
members of these French exiles, cheerfully emigrated to these 
desolate wilds, to which the enterprise of the Dutch Company 
presented a ready passage. 

In confirmation of these facts, it may be remarked, that 
there is an aged female, who was born in this town, and is 
still living at the advanced age of 95 years, who distinctly 
recollects hearing her mother relate what bitter persecutions 
their ancestors endured in their native land, and how they 
were, at length, constrained to fly, — travelling by night, and 
concealing themselves by day, till they reached Holland ; 
whence some of their children emigrated to America, 'caving 
others of their kindred in the land of their first refuge. 

These remarks are important, from the general opinion that 
has heretofore prevailed, that the west end of the Island was 
settled exclusively by Dutch emigrants. They were indeed 
the most numerous, and eventually determined the completion 
of all the institutions, both civil and ecclesiastical, which were 
here established; while those of French extract, by contigu- 
ous residence, and frequent intermarriages, in process of time, 
adopted their language, and became completely amalgamated 
as one people. 

It may be added, that many of the names which have ex- 
isted, or still exist in this and other towns, on this end of the 
island, and have usually been regarded as Dutch names, were 
manifestly French. 

When in 1664, the English forces arrived at New Amster- 
dam, and summoned Governor Stuyvesant to surrender the 
province, it seems that the Dutch people, both in the city and 
on the western parts of Long Island, exhibited little inclina- 
tion to resist the demand, or to aid their Governor, in defence 
of the fort. Hence the province was given up without a strug- 
gle. But the people soon found that they had gained little, 
by an exchange of masters, in regard either to civil or religious 
liberty. And the town of Buswick was among the first to re- 
ceive a lesson from their new rulers. 

The following translation of some of the records of this 



SECT. 20.] BUSHWICK. 345 

town, made by Gen. Johnson, will show that the English go- 
vernors early assumed the power which had been exercised by 
their Dutch predecessors, in ecclesiastical matters ; notwith- 
standing, it was provided by the 8th Article of the Capitula- 
tion, that " the Dutch here shall enjoy the liberty of their 
consciences, in divine worship and church-discipline." It will 
be observed that this first order was issued the very year after 
the surrender : — 
" Beloved Friends, 

" As you have no minister to preach the gospel to the 
congregation of your town, nor are you able wholly to main- 
tain a minister, therefore, it seems proper to us, that the neigh- 
bouring towns, which have no settled minister, should com- 
bine with you to maintain the gospel ministry, and that you 
should jointly contribute for that purpose ; Therefore, we 
deem it proper to order, and firmly and orderly to establish, 
according to the desire of many of your people, who have 
conferred with me, therefore, we have ordered that three or 
four persons, duly authorized, appear, on Thursday or Friday 
next, further to confer on that matter, for themselves and the 
timid, and the other inhabitants. 

" Whereupon, we greet you cordially, as honoured and re- 
spected friends, and as vour friend. RICHARD NICOLL. 

"Fort James, Oct. i7, 1665." 

" Beloved and Honourable Good Friends : 

" Before this time our order has been made known to you, 
that the honourable ministers of this place, in turn, will preach 
to your people until you are able to maintain a minister your- 
selves. By our order presented to you, you were required to 
raise the sum of 175 guilders, as your proportion of the sa- 
lary ; but, in consideration of the trouble, in your town, we 
have deemed it proper, under present circumstances, to reduce 
the sum of 175 guilders to the sum of 100 guilders, which we 
deem reasonable, and against which no reasonable complaint 
can exist, and ought to be satisfactory ; which last sum we 
demand for the ministers' salary ; therefore, we expect that 
measures will be adopted, to collect the same, promptly, pur- 
suant to this order ; and to ensure the same, we have deemed 
it proper to appoint Evert Hedeman and Peter Jansen Dewit, 
giving them full power and authority to assess and collect 
that sum, having regard to the condition and circumstances 
of the people, and to decide what each of them shall pay, 
which the said persons shall collect, or cause to be collected, 
15* 



346 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

that is, ICO guilders, in three instalments, and pay the same 
over to us ; the first, on the last day of December next ; the 
second, on the last day of April next, and the third, on the 
last day of August next ensuing. Whereupon, we remain 
your friend, greeting, RICHARD NICOLL. 

" This will be delivered to Evert Hedeman and Peter Jan- 
sen Dewit, and read to the congregation. R. N. 

"Fort James, Dec. 26, 1665." 

" Anno 1665, the 27th of December, the minister preached 
his first sermon at the house of Giesbert Tonissen, who was 
sent to preach by the Hon. Governor, Richard Nicoli." 

" To the inhabitants ofJBushwick : 

" Beloved Friends — I am authorized, by the governor, to 
receive the salary of the ministers, being 100 guilders, which 
is due and now collecting in your town, pursuant to o^der, 
which I am to pay over to the requiring ministers. Your 
friend greeting; C. V. Ruyven. 

" New-York, Jan. 5, 1666." 

"Anno 1*666, Jan. 13, O. S. The persons named below, 
have been obliged to pay to Evert Hedeman and Peter Jan- 
sen Dewit, (compelled collectors ) for the ministers' salary, 
the sums set opposite to their respective names which was as- 
sessed upon their sowed lands." 

Here follow the names of 26 persons, who paid the sum of 
100 guilders for the ministers' salary. This odious tax ap- 
pears to have been levied and collected until the colony was 
re-taken by the Dutch, in 1673. " The name of the minister, 
who preached the first sermon at the house of Giesbert Tonis- 
sen, Dec. 27th, 1665, is not mentioned in the record; nor 
does the name of any of the favoured gentry appear, nor is it 
said that they were Dutch, French or English clergymen, for 
whom this tribute was levied." 

The translator adds further, in a note : — 

" From the year 1660, until the Dutch church was built in 
Bushwick, the people of the town were connected with the 
church of Brooklyn, and Gov. JSicoll knew it." 

Churches. 

There is no evidence of the organization of a church, or 
the erection of a house of worship in this town till the com- 
mencement of the 18th century. A part of the communion 
service still in use, bears the date of 1708 ; from which it is 
inferred that the church was formed about that time. 

There is also a receipt still extant, for a church bell, dated 



SECT. 20.] BUSHWICK. 347 

in 1711, which renders it probable that the house of worship 
had been erected not long before. It was in the usual form, 
an octagon, with a pyramidal roof, surmounted with a cupola. 
It was a mere inclosure, without pews or gallery, till near the 
close of the century, the congregation furnishing themselves 
with benches or chairs. In 1790, the building received a new 
roof; and in 1795, a front gallery was erected, and the ground 
floor furnished with pews. 

In 1829, the old building was taken down, and the present 
neat edifice erected, which was dedicated in the fall of that 
year. 

Ministers. 

From the first organization of a church in this town, it con- 
stituted a part of the collegiate charge of the County, and 
was served by the pastors of the five Dutch towns. Of course, 
from the preceding dates, Messrs. Freeman and Antonides 
were the first pastors of this church, and they preached here 
alternately every third sabbath. There is a receipt from the 
former, for salary, in 17C9. The name of the succeeding 
pastors, with the dates of their settlement and dismission or 
decease, will be found in the annals of Flatbush. 

In 18C8, the Rev. Mr. Lowe having withdrawn from the 
oversight of this church, to the exclusive charge of Flatbush 
and Flatlands, the Rev. Mr. Schoonmaker continued to preach 
here occasionally till his death, in the spring of lb24. 

In 1811, the Rev. John Basset, D.D., was installed pastor 
of this church. On the 1st of June, 1824, he was suspended 
from the ministry, for intemperance, and died in the succeed- 
ing autumn. 

The Rev. Stephen H. Meeker was ordained pastor of this 
church, Feb. 27th, 1826. He was dismissed, April 27th, 
1830, and was called to the Dutch church in Jersey city. 
After an absence of about 6 months, he was recalled and re- 
installed, in the fall of the same year. He still continues in 
the charge, and the congregation has enjoyed uninterrupted 
harmony and a gradual accession to its numbers. 

The spring of 1843 was distinguished as a season of special 
refreshing, which resulted in the addition of 35 to the com- 
munion of the church. The whole number of members at 
the present time is 170. 

This church holds its connexion with one of the Classes of 
the City of New- York. 



348 ANNALS OP THE TOWNS. [PART 2 ? 



Section 21.— WILLIAMSBURGH. 

Number of acres improved, - - - - 88J 
Residue (estimated at) 978 

Ratio of population to the acre, 10 to 1. 

The territory occupied by this small town having been 
taken off from Bushvvick, its exact content as above stated, 
is the result of a rough estimate which is not claimed to be 
perfectly correct. It is, however a very small township con- 
taining less than 2 square miles ; being bounded on the north 
and east by Bushwick — south by Brooklyn, and west by the 
East river, which separates it from the city of New York. 

This it will be perceived, is the most populous town, in pro- 
portion to its territory, on the island ; and the increase of its 
inhabitants during the last few years, is almost without a pa- 
rallel. Fy the U. S. Census of 1840 its population was 5,094 ; 
and by the late State Census it is 11,338, having more than 
doubled in 5 years. 

The early history of the place is of course, identified with 
that of Bushwick, from which it was separated, and made a 
distinct town in 1840. From its proximity to the city, it 
might be supposed to have been the seat of the principal set- 
tlement in the first occupation of this region. But it was far 
otherwise. The first town plat was evidently not far from 
the present site of the village in Bushvvick ; and until 17 
years ago, the whole territory now embraced within the limits 
of this town was occupied in separate farms, the whole num- 
ber of which was 23 ; of which 10 butted on the river. Be- 
sides the farm houses belonging to these several tracts, there 
were scarcely any tenements, excepting a few small buildings 
on the roads connected with North Second-street Ferry. 

The site of this village rises gradually to the height of 
about 45 feet above the level of the adjacent waters. And 
though it afterwards suffers a depression about a mile from 
the river, the surrounding lands will furnish sufficient material 
to raise the whole to a desirable elevation. The east part of 
the town, or the "Upper Village" as it is called, a little more 
than a mile from the ferries, is a peculiarly pleasant and de- 
sirable residence. On the whole, nature seems to have 
formed this entire territory as the site of a beautiful town. 

In 1627 an Act was passed by the legislature, conferring 
the usual village powers. A surveyor was employed by 



SECT. 21.] WILLIAMSBUKGH. 340 

public authority, and the village was laid out in its present 
form. Although there is a great deal of regularity in the plat, 
it will be a matter of lasting regret, that the streets were not 
laid out in exact parallels and perpendiculars ; and it is diffi- 
cult to imagine, on what principle, so many veering and con- 
verging streets could have been laid down, on a tract of land, 
that presented no obstacles to a perfectly regular plan. If it 
were designed to accommodate the existing line of farms, or 
the few buildings that were previously erected, it must have 
been a short sighted policy that sacrificed the convenience 
and beauty of a future city, to the real or imaginary interests 
of a few individuals. These remarks are made without any 
knowledge of the views that governed the survey ; and are 
suggested entirely by the fact, that in the whole circuit of 
the city of New York, there is not a spot of ground of equal 
extent, where a village could have been laid out with such 
perfect regularity, in both the direction and the grade of the 
streets, as within the entire limits of Williamsburgh. 

From this time the village began to rise, and continued to 
increase till 1837, when from the universal " pressure of the 
times," it was brought to a dead stand. The pressure here 
received additional weight, from the extensive prevalence of 
" the spirit of speculation" and the rage for " public improve- 
ment," which had characterized the operations of former 
years. And so heavy was the blow, that for several years, 
there was scarcely one step in advance. But wiser counsels 
and more prudent measures have, in a good degree, restored 
public confidence. The influx of a healthful and enterpris- 
ing population, is adding strength and vigour to the com- 
munity ; and it is now advancing with unprecedented pros- 
perity. 

As the growth and prosperity of this village are chiefly de- 
pendent on its connection and means of intercourse with the 
city of New York, its Ferries are worthy of a brief notice. 

The first ferry was established not far from the commence- 
ment of the present century, at the foot of what is now North 
Second-street. 

The Grand-street ferry was commenced in 1812. After 
a few years it was united with the former. 

The Peck-slip ferry was established in 1836. 

The Houston-street ferry in 1840. 

The last three are in constant operation, and their patron- 



350 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

age, as a matter of course, is increasing with the increase of 
population. 

The natural location of Williamsburgh, and the great ex- 
tent of the city embraced by its ferries, most unequivocally 
mark it, as (he appropriate and natural terminus of the L. I. 
Rail road, and the other great thoroughfares of the island. 
The distance from Jamaica, is 2 or '6 miles shorter than to 
Brooklyn, and its ferries afford the traveller or the market- 
man, the choice of being conveyed directly to the seat of 
business or to the upper part of the city. 

It is worthy of remark, that, by an act of the legislature in 
1840, Williamsburgh was erected into a separate township, 
while the viilage organization remains under its charter, which 
was amended in many important particulars in 1744 ; and 
thus it has the needless and expensive arrangement of two 
municipal corporations, with separate elections, and a distinct 
set of officers to administer government within exactly the 
same territorial limits. It is difficult to imagine what bene- 
fit is secured hy such an arrangement, or why the people 
should be willing to prolong a needless expense, that might be 
entirely obviated by a slight amendment of the village charter. 
Notwithstanding all the embarrassments which this village 
has been labouring under, from the mistakes and errors of for- 
mer years, its present prospects are peculiarly cheering ; and 
nothing but a mistaken policy on the part of the village ru- 
lers and the land proprietors can impede its progress. Within 
the last 2 years, more than 400 dwelling-houses have been 
erected — many of them superb buildings ; and there is now 
scarcely an unoccupied tenement to be found. 

A large portion of the present population consists of those, 
whose business transactions are carried on in the city of New 
York, and who have fixed their residence here, for the sake of 
enjoying a freer air and other corresponding advantages. It 
is difficult, if not impossible, for persons occupying such a re- 
lation to a community, to feel all that interest and exert all 
that influence in its concerns which is desirable. Still, how- 
ever, the constant increase of citizens from this source is evi- 
dently exerting a favourable effect on the welfare of the place ; 
and the more they feel, that the interests of their families are 
identified with the interests of the community in which they 
have cast their lot, and that their personal exertions are indis- 
pensable to its prosperity, the greater benefits may be expected 
to result. 

One of the most promising indications of the future pros- 



8ECT. 21.] WILLIAMSBURGH. 351 

perity of this village is the provision which has been made for 
popular education. The village is divided into three school 
districts, in each of which a spacious edifice for instruction 
was reared in 1843. The schools were opened near the close 
of that year, and are supported by a tax on the entire popu- 
lation. In the same manner, books, stationery, and every- 
thing necessary for the use of the pupils are provider!, so that 
all the children of the place (of which there are '2,691 between 
the ages of 5 and 15) have access to the means of education, 
without charge. It remains to be proved whether this very 
extensive liberality will be duly appreciated by the commu- 
nity, and result in extending the benefits of education to the 
greatest number. It is well known that that which costs no- 
thing is very apt to be regarded as worth little or nothing. 
Besides this, education is of very little advantage to that child 
who does not feel the importance of having books of his own, 
which are to be preserved with care for future use ; and those 
parents, who are not willing to furnish their children with 
books, are not very likely to avail themselves of any advan- 
tages for educating them. In such a place as this, free in- 
struction is indeed desirable ; but the furnishing of bocks, 
&c, to be used or abused at the option of the scholar, is 
at least very questionable : and that this liberal provision is 
not yet appreciated, may be inferred from the fact that a large 
number of the children, of the legitimate age, are not in the 
habit of attending the schools. 

Besides the public institutions, there are numerous private 
schools, more or less select, for both sexes, and of various 
grades ; while many, who can afford it, daily send their chil- 
dren across the ferries to the schools of the city — the last 
place, it would seem, in which a cautious parent would be 
willing to expose his children. It is a disgrace to the vil- 
lage, that it can boast of no literary institution of a higher 
grade within its limits, for the improvement of either, sex ; 
and yet it is obvious that few villages possess greater advan- 
tages for rearing and maintaining a seminary, of a high order, 
for the liberal education of their sons and daughters. Nothing 
is wanting, but united views and combined exertions, to se- 
cure the important object. 

In connexion with the literary advantages of the place, it is 
worthy of notice, that a Lyceum was organized here in 1S43, 
which has maintained a respectable course of useful exercises 
of a literary and scientific character, during the last two 
winters. Having recently obtained an act of incorporation, 



352 ANNALS OP THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

it is contemplated to erect a suitable building, to found a libra- 
ry, and establish a reading-room, with such other appendages 
as may render it permanently and generally useful. 

A Mechanics' Association was formed shortly after the 
former, which promises to be useful to those for whose benefit 
it is designed. 

Churches. 

The first ecclesiastical organization in this village was the 
Methodist Episcopal church, which was formed about the year 
1807. Their first house of worship was erected in 1808, on 
North Second, above Fourth street. It was repaired in 1821, 
and is still standing. 

In 1837, the society having been greatly enlarged, the 
foundation of a spacious brick church was laid, which was 
completed and dedicated Jan. 8th, 1840. It is situated on 
South Second, between Fifth and Sixth streets, and is the 
most spacious and comfortable church hitherto completed in 
the place. 

The corner stone of the Reformed Dutch church bears date 
Aug. 28th, 1828. It is situated on the corner of Fourth and 
South Second street. A consistory-room adjoining the church 
was erected in 1843. The church was organized the 1st Sab- 
bath in Nov., 1829. 

The first pastor, the Rev. James Demarest, was ordained 
on the last Sabbath in June, 1830, and dismissed July 2d, 1839. 

The Rev. William H. Van Doren, the present pastor, was 
ordained Jan. 29th, 1840. 

The Methodist Protestant church was organized in 1833, 
by a secession of about 35 members from the Methodist Epis- 
copal church. They immediately adopted measures to erect 
a church, which was dedicated in the autumn of that year. It 
is a small, but comfortable edifice, standing on Grand street, 
between Fourth and Fifth. This congregation are contem- 
plating a new erection. 

The Protestant Episcopal church was erected in 1840, and 
consecrated April 27th, 1841. It is a stone building, of neat 
architectural structure, and finished in the Gothic style. The 
interior, which is painted in fresco, is peculiarly chaste and 
beautiful, and is said to be one of the finest specimens of the 
art, that is to be found in this country. 



SECT. 21.] WILLIAMSBUKGH. 853 

The Baptist church was organized in 1839. After enjoy- 
ing the labours of several different individuals, 

The Rev. Samuel Mussey became the pastor, in which re- 
lation he continued till the autumn of 1843. 

In that year they erected a church edifice, which was 
dedicated on the 29th of June. 

In May, 1844, the Rev. Alanson P. Mason became their 
pastor, and the congregation is one of the most respectable in 
the village. 

"The First Presbyterian Church" was organized and 
placed under the care of the Presbytery of Brooklyn, May 
26th, 1842. It then consisted of 7 male and 8 female mem- 
bers. Shortly after the organization, the members became 
divided on the subject of abolition, which resulted in the dis- 
mission of 4 male and 3 female members, who united in a 
new organization, that will be hereafter noticed. 

After enjoying occasional supplies, the Rev. Joseph R. 
Johnson commenced labouring here in Nov. 1842, and was 
installed pastor, June 13th, 1843. A season of special re- 
freshing had been enjoyed during the preceding winter, and 
this church was greatly increased. In Feb. 1844, when the 
number of members amounted to 86, a number of the breth- 
ren proposed transferring their relation from the Presbytery 
of Brooklyn to that of New York. The church became di- 
vided on the question ; and in the result, three elders with 20 
private members were, at their own request, dismissed, March 
29th, 1S44, for the purpose of organizing another church, to 
be placed under the care of the Presbytery of New York. 

In April, 1845, the Rev. Mr. Johnson was dismissed from 
the pastoral care of this church, and the Rev. James W. 
McLane was installed on the 2d of September following. 

This congregation have not yet erected a house of worship, 
but have purchased a lot on the corner of Fourth and South 
Second street, on which they contemplate building. They have 
already erected a spacious lecture room for their present ac- 
commodation, which will be ready to be occupied in the 
course of a few weeks. 

The First Congregational Church was organized May 28th, 
1843, consisting principally of the first secession from the 
Presbyterian church. In the same year they erected a brick 
edifice on South Third Street, corner of Eleventh. At its or- 



354 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

ganization, the Rev. Simeon S. Jocelyn took the pastoral 
charge, in which relation he still remains. 

" The Presbyterian Church" originated in the second seces- 
sion from the *' First Presbyterian Church," which has been 
previously referred to. They first assembled for worship on 
the 7th of April, 1844, in the public room of school district 
No. 1, which had been procured for the purpose. On appli- 
cation to the Presbytery of New York, a committee of that 
body was appointed, who met on the 19th of April and organ- 
ized a chinch, consisting of 27 members, which was subse- 
quently taken under the care of that Presbytery, and the Rev. 
N. S. Prime, at the request of the session, was engaged as 
stated supply. 

At a meeting, April 22d, 1844, which had been duly noti- 
fied according to the statute, trustees were elected, and the 
congregation became incorporated under the style of " The 
Presbyterian Church of Wjlliamsburgh." 

The Rev. P. Eugene Stevenson received a unanimous call 
Oct. 31st, 1844, to the pastoral charge of this church, and 
shortly after commenced labouring with them. He was in- 
stalled Feb. 20th, 1845, and continues in the charge. 

This congregation have commenced, and already made en- 
couraging progress in the erection of a church, on the corner 
of Fifth and South Third street. The edifice is of brick, 62 
by 75 fc^t, with a projection of 12 [eet by 20 for a steeple, 
which is to receive a clock and bell. The ground was broken 
on the 15th of July — the corner-stone was laid with appropriate 
religious services on the 18th of August — the building is now 
enclosed, and is expected to be completed in the course of the 
winter. 

The African Methodist Epis. (Zion) Church was organ- 
ized iu 18:15. For some years past, they have worshipped in 
the old Methodist church, but of late in a school house. 
A year or two since they attempted to rear a house of their 
own, on North Second street, above Union Avenue ; but 
after raising the frame, they have been unable to proceed, and 
it remains unenclosed. 

The Free Union Meth. Church, (also African,) was organ- 
ized Feb. 4th, 1842. They erected a small house in the 
course of the last year, on South Third street, near Ninth, in 
which they assemble for worship. 

A Wesleyan Methodist church was organized Aug. 23d, 



SECT. 21.] WILLIAMSBURGH. 355 

1943, but was dissolved, by consent of the members, April 
15th, 1844. 

There are two Roman Catholic churches in this village — 
one on First street, corner of North Eighth, erected in 1810. 
The other was built in the upper village, in 1841, for the Ger- 
man Catholics, of whom there is a large population in that 
vicinity. 

The stated preaching of the doctrine of universal salvation, 
was commenced in this place the present year, in a building 
which had been previously erected by individual enterprise ; 
and the certificate of incorporation of the " Free Universalist 
Society" was entered in the office of the County Clerk, Aug. 
24th, 1845. 

To complete the record of all the religious societies that 
have had a separate organization in this village, it is necessa- 
ry to add, that about three years ago the " Midnight Cry" was 
sounded long and loud through these streets, and not a iqw 
were led to believe that^he time of the end was near. And 
for a number of months in 1843-4, this place seemed to be 
one of the favourite resorts of the advocates of this false 
alarm. Here grove-meetings were held for many successive 
days, and hundreds assembled to listen to the warning. Hither 
the author and high priest of this delusion came, for a final 
visit, just before the expected end, and publicly assured his 
deceived followers, that " he had no more doubt, that within 
10 days time, he should see Abraham and David and Paul, and 
all the holy patriarchs and prophets and apostles, coming with 
the Lord of glory, than that he was then addressing that as- 
sembly." That many were duped into the belief of this false 
doctrine, cannot be doubted. But how much confidence some 
of the leaders in this scheme reposed in their own predictions, 
may be inferred from a fact publicly witnessed in the streets. 
On the very day, which had been so confidently predicted for 
the final catastrophe, while the sun was shining in all its 
brightness from a cloudless sky, a large printed hand-bill, 
which must have been previously prepared, was set up, an- 
nouncing a course of lectures on the "Second Advent," to 
commence on some day of the next week, and to be con- 
tinued in successive weeks. The time of the end was then 
regularly adjourned for a few months, and the poor deluded 
multitude unhesitatingly deferred their hopes or their fears, to 
a more distant day. But in a short time, the providence of 



356 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

God re-enstamped the seal of falsehood, upon this impious pre- 
tence of "knowing the times and seasons, which the Father 
hath put in his own power." The result, it is to be hoped, 
has terminated the delusion. 

In view of the recent origin of this entire village, it is ob- 
vious to remark, that most of the religious societies which 
exist in the place, are yet in their infancy. It will be per- 
ceived by a reference to the date of their respective organiza- 
tions, that with the exception of two or three, they have all 
arisen, within the last five or six years. And although the 
population of the village has experienced an unusual increase, 
in the course of that time, it is not to be supposed, that, 
among so many distinct associations, any of them have enjoyed 
proportional accessions. Besides this, it is a melancholy fact, 
which cannot be concealed, that there is a very large portion 
of this community, who have no religious attachments, and 
have yet to learn the value of divine institutions. Multitudes 
of the rising generation are growing up, without the restraints 
of moral and religious instruction, either at the domestic fire- 
side, or in the house of worship ; while they are daily exposed 
to the allurements of dissipation and vice, which in some parts 
of the village, are presented more frequently than the corners 
of every street. 

There is another fact resulting from the local situation of 
this town, which exerts a most pernicious influence upon the 
moral interests of the community. Placed in the immediate 
vicinity, and under the very shadow of a great metropolis, 
whose overflowing wickedness is constantly pouring forth a 
torrent of moral desolation at every avenue, this village can- 
not but feel its demoralizing influences. But most of all, is 
the truth of this remark realized on the holy Sabbath. On 
that sacred day, thousands, and tens of thousands in the city, 
released from the ordinary occupations of life, uniformly spend 
their time in idleness, amusement or dissipation. And for 
these purposes, multitudes issue forth into the adjacent vil- 
lages and towns, to indulge their inclinations without restraint. 
And in this connexion, it will be observed, that just in propor- 
tion to the increased vigilance and energy of the city authori- 
ties to control the haunts of iniquity, and preserve the sanctity 
of the Sabbath, within their own bounds, is this desolating 
flood increased in the surrounding country. This, Williams- 
burgh has long felt, to the great grief of all who respect divine 
institutions, and love the souls of men. 

But in the midst of all these untoward circumstances, it is 



SECT. 22.] BROOKLYN. 357 

grateful to record the fact, and it is one that has an encouraging 
bearing on the moral aspect of the community, that there is a 
remarkable spirit of union and fellow-feeling among evangeli- 
cal christians, in regard to the moral and religious interests of 
the village. Here may be seen Methodists and Baptists, Re- 
formed Dutch and Congregationalists, and Presbyterians of 
both sections of that church, in the exercise of a truly catho- 
lic spirit, uniting their efforts to restrain the vices of the times, 
and disseminate the influence of gospel truth. And it is be- 
lieved, that there are few towns in this christian land, in which 
there are as many distinct organizations, where it can be said 
with more propriety, " Ephraim doth not envy Judah, and Ju- 
dah doth not vex Ephraim." The ministers of these several 
churches, not only live in harmony, but frequently exchange 
labours ; and for some time past, they have maintained a so- 
cial meeting to consult upon the interests of the community ; 
in connexion with which, a monthly lecture is attended, in 
their several places of worship in turn. 

This fact may appear to the eye of a stranger as scarcely 
worthy a distinct recognition. But to those who realize that 
they are laying foundations for a large community, whose fu- 
ture destinies are deeply involved in the influences that are 
now brought to bear upon its infancy, they cannot be regarded 
with indifference or estimated at a small price. 

Section 22.— BROOKLYN. 

Area. Population. 

Acres improved, 4,421. In 1840, 36,233 

" unimproved, 4,579. In 1845, 59,574 

Ratio of population to the acre, 6^ to 1. 

This town is bounded on the north by the claims of the 
city of New-York, and by Williamsburgh and Bushwick — 
east, by Bushwick — south, by Flatbush, and New Utrecht ; 
and west by New-York harbour. 

Within the present limits of this town, the first European 
family that settled on Long Island, took up their residence in 
the spring of 1625, and here the first child of European pa- 
rentage was born on the 9th of June, the same year. They 
fixed their abode at the place, which was early named Waale- 
boght — now, the Wallabout, near the site occupied by the 
United States Navy Yard. The name is said to be descrip- 
tive of the place, meaning, " a bend in the shore," or what we 
call a Cove. 



359 ANNALS OP THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

The name of the first settler above mentioned was George 
Jansen de Rapalje, and his first-born child on the island was 
Sarah Rapalje. 

As this family, in its various connexions, has borne a con- 
spicuous part in the annals of the western parts of Long Is- 
land, and as various and contradictory accounts have been 
published in regard to several individuals belonging to it, and 
especially of Sarah Rapalje, who, from the :ircumstances of 
her birth, has been regarded as a sort of heioine in the early 
history of this town, the writer has made it a special object to 
possess himself of the most correct information which could 
be obtained. 

In the first place, then, let the fact, which has been previ- 
ously stated, be borne in mind, that this family was not of 
Dutch, but French descent. They were either natives of 
France, or the children of French huguenots, who, at the 
close of the preceding century, had been obliged to fly for their 
lives from the bloody persecutions in that country. It is 
a pleasant reflection, that the first settlement of this isle of the 
sea was consecrated by the prayers of some of that pious race. 

There were three brothers by the name of Jansen, who 
came over to this country at an early period ; their names are 
all identified with the history of the western parts of the 
island, and their ashes repose in its bosom. 

George Jansen de Rapalje was the first immigrant, as above 
stated. He held his ecclesiastical connexion for some years 
with the Dutch Church in New Amsterdam, till after the or- 
ganization of a church in Brooklyn, when, according to the 
records of that church, h<s relation was transferred in 1662, by 
a certificate under the hand of the Rev. Johannes Megapo- 
lensis. 

But it is in relation to his daughter Sarah that we find the 
greatest discrepancies. According to Judge Benson's ac- 
count, which has been followed by others, " Sarah was born 
June 9th, 1625, and was twice married — first to Hans Hanse 
Bergen, by whom she had six children, viz., Michael, Joris, 
Jan, Jacob, Breckje, and Marytje. Her second husband was 
Teunis Guisbertse Bogert, by whom she had six children, viz., 
Aurtie, Antje, Neeltje, Aultje, Catalyntie, and Guysbert." And 
it is stated, in addition, that " the archives of the New York 
Historical Society contain the names of the persons whom 
eleven of her children married, and the places also where they 
settled. The twelfth went to Holland/' And still further, 
that in the journal of the Dutch Council, in 1656, it is record- 



SECT. 22.] BROOKLYN. 359 

ed that " the widow of Hems Hanson, the first-born Christian 
daughter in New Netherlands, burdened with seven children, 
petitions for a grant of a piece of meadow, in addition to the 
morgen granted to her at the Waale-Boght." 

Appendix to .Smith's History of New York contains a 
p eter Vroom, of Raratan,- N. J., in which it is 
ah I^apalje was born on the 7th (instead of the 
. , and. that the Dutch records at Albany (Letter P, 
Vo e, that Sarah was a widow by the name of Forey, 

with sc children, and that she received a grant of land ad- 
joining her former possessions, " in consideration of her situa- 
tion and number of births." 

As all accounts agree in the fact that she was born in 1625, 
she must, according to both these statements, have been a 
widow with 7 children at the age of 31 years. This, indeed, 
is not incredible — nor that she might have had 5 or 6 more 
after that period. But great doubt is thrown on several of 
these particulars from the account given the writer, by Gen. 
Jeremiah Johnson, which is derived from the family record, 
formerly in his possession. His statement is in substance as 
follows : — 

George Jansen de Rapalje had 8 children — four sons and 
four daughters. The sons' names were George, Jeromus, 
Daniel, and Jacob. Jacob was slain by the Indians. The 
daughters were Sarah, the eldest, (the individual in question,) 
who was married to Teunis Guysbert Bogart — the very per- 
son who, according to a former account, is said to have been 
her second husband ; Jane, to Jeremiah Remsen Vander- 
beeck ; (they had 16 children, who were all married and 
attended their father's funeral ;) Judith was married to 
Martin Ryerse ; and Catharine to Hanse Bergen, who ap- 
pears to have been the same man, who, according to the 
former account, was the first husband of Sarah. From the 
Register of Baptisms in the Dutch church of Brooklyn, it 
appears, that, on the 30th of September, 1663, George Ra- 
palje and Sarah his wife stood as sponsors at the baptism of 
Guysbert, a son" of John Lawrence Bogart and Cornelia 
Evarts, his wife. Gen. Johnson adds, " it is not known in the 
family that Sarah ever was a widow." 

It has also been stated, as a tradition, that " the Indians, 
induced by the circumstance of her being the first white child 
born here, gave to her father and brethren the lands adjacent 
to the bay." The following tradition, given by Gen. John- 



360 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

son, is equally romantic, and may possibly have been the 
foundation of the former : — 

When Rapalje first settled at the Wallabout, Minuet was 
the commander at Fort Amsterdam. Having one day crossed 
over to the island with three associates, on a gunning excr 
sion, and becoming extremely hungry, they entered Rap- 
house to seek refreshment. Finding no one withir 
helped themselves to an Indian dumpling, the onlv i ,ie 
they could find. Just as they were concluding their frugal 
repast, the housewife, with her child in her arms, returned 
from the field, where she had been assisting her husband. 
Finding her only provision consumed by a company of law- 
less intruders, she gave them a severe reprimand, calling them 
thieves and robbers — but particularly complaining that she 
had come home on purpose to feed her hungry child, and they 
had consumed the only article of food, that she had to give it. 
When she had finished her complaint, the good-natured Cap- 
tain made himself known, and promised, when the ships came 
from Europe, to give her a milch-cow, in compensation for the 
dumpling. Unlike most rulers, he was better than his word ; 
for, with the cow, he gave her an additional tract of land, for 
the support of her child. 

This account seems to accord with the fact recognized in 
the records of the Dutch Council, in 1656, that Sarah Rapalje 
had previously received " 20 morgen of land at the Waale- 
Boght," which may have been this very gift of Minuet. 

George Jansen was followed to this country by his brothers, 
Antonie and William. The latter took up his residence in 
New Amsterdam, where he entered into trade. He lived un- 
married, and died without issue. Antonie was the earliest 
patentee of " 100 morgen," nearly 200 acres of land, at 
Gravesend. The original patent bears date Aug. 1st, 1639, 
and is in the office of the State at Albany. Another patent, 
apparently in confirmation of the same grant, was given by 
Gov. Kieft, under date of May 27th, 1643, to Antonie Jansen 
de Salee. In this adjunct to his name, probably originated the 
unfounded tradition, that he was a Moor by birth ; and the re 
ports of his prodigious stature and strength may have con- 
tributed to give it currency. But he was neither more nor 
less than a native Frenchman, or the son of French exiles, 
who had sought and obtained a temporary asylum in the Low 
Countries. The origin of this part of his name is supposed to 
have been derived from the Salic Franks, who formerly had their 



SECT. 22.] BROOKLYN. 361 

residence on the river Sale. And it was this that gave rise to 
the conjecture that he had como from Sallee in Morocco. 

How early he took possession of his farm at Gravesend is 
not ascertained ; but it is known that he resided there, when 
his brother William Jansen retired from New Amsterdam, 
and died at his house. And this farm was long known by the 
name of " Anthony Jansen's Bowery." 

The reputed stature and strength of this individual may not 
be without foundation, and is rendered probable, by the occa- 
sonal re-appearance of the same peculiarities, in the line of 
his posterity. His grandson (not his brother, as some have 
incorrectly stated,) William Jansen, of Gravesend, is known 
to have been 6 feet 4 inches in height ; and on one occasion, 
to give a specimen of his strength, he carried 10 bushels of 
wheat from his barn to the house, and up the chamber stairs. 
Gen. Johnson says, that when in his youth, he visited his 
great-uncle at Gravesend, he inquired into the truth of the 
statement, and the manner of performing the act, to which 
the old gentlemen replied : " I took one bag on each shoulder, 
one in each hand, and one in my teeth ;" and then opening 
the chamber door, he showed the stair case which he ascended, 
and the place where he deposited his load. He died in the 
early part of the present century, being above 80 years of 
age. Another descendant of Antonie Jansen, by the name of 
Ruleph Vanbrunt, in New Utrecht, being attacked, in the time 
of the last war, by two workmen whom he caught stealing 
melons in his field, seized one in each hand, and holding them 
at arms' length, pummeled their heads and bodies together, 
till, being let go, they were glad to run away, without making 
any further aggression.* Gen. Jeremiah Johnson, from 
whom these facts were obtained, is still living, and is a de- 
scendant of the 5th generation from Antonie Jansen de Salee 
of Gravesend. 

It is important to add, here, that the descendants of 
George, who settled at the Wallabout, dropped the name of 
Jansen, and retained that of Rapalje, which is now written 
Rapalyea ; and to this origin, the numerous families of that 
name may be traced. The descendants of Antonie as ge- 
nerally rejected the adjunct Salee, and retained the name of 
Jansen, which has undergone another change, equally impor- 
tant to be noticed. The descendants of this family on Long 

* The mother of this Vanbrunt was the granddaughter of Antonie Jan. 
sen, and is now living at Yellow Hook, in New Utrecht, at the advanced 
age of 95 years. 

16 



362 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

Island, now invariably write their name Johnson, which 
although differing in orthography, varies very little from the 
Dutch pronunciation of the original name. Many of those 
branches of the family which removed, at an early date, to 
the counties of Duchess and Orange, retain the ancient name 
of Jansen ; though, even in those places, it is common at this 
day, to he,ar the name pronounced Johnson. It will therefore 
be observed, that these names were originally one and the 
same, and evidently of French derivation. 

The remarks which were made, in regard to the occurrence 
of French names, among the early settlers of the town of 
Bushvvick, apply with equal propriety to many of the first im- 
migrants, into this, and other towns of King's county. They 
were not exclusively Dutch, but French exiles, or their imme- 
diate descendants. 

Although there is no reason to doubt, that the settlement of 
the west end of the island was commenced as early as 1625, 
it is believed, that the progress of immigration was much 
slower than is generally supposed. It will be borne in mind 
that the first adventurers from Holland came to this country, 
almost exclusively for the purpose of trade, and not for the 
cultivation of the soil. And it is possible that some might 
have taken up their residence here, without leave or license, 
as is common in a new country, yet these facts plainly show, 
that the actual settlement of this part of the island could not 
have made much progress in the first 8 or 10 years. 

Moreover, it is evident that the settlement of this town was 
made in the same desultory manner, as in most of the adja- 
cent towns. There seems to have been no compact or con- 
cert of action among the first settlers, nor any calculations 
looking forward to the early establishment of municipal regu- 
lations. And this is undoubtedly the great reason why there 
is no early evidence of any general patents issued by the 
Dutch government. Each man appears to have acted for 
himself; and when he had found a tract of land that suited 
him, he was content to sit down, with a grant or brief from the 
Governor, entirely unconcerned as to who might become his 
next door neighbour. This fully accounts for the great delay 
in the establishment of regular municipal governments in the 
Dutch towns, and for the extensive control which the Gover- 
nors exercised over the acts of the people, after they were 
established. 

As the population in this region increased, and some sort of 
magistrates became absolutely necessary, the Governor as- 



SECT. 22«] BROOKLYN. 363 

sumed the power of appointing what was called a " Superin- 
tendant," whose duty it was to preserve the peace, and regu- 
late the police of the town. At a subsequent period, this 
office was abolished, and the Governor appointed a " Schout, 
a Secretary and Assessor." But it was not till 1646, that the 
people of this town were permitted to elect their own magis- 
trates; and even then, their election was made subject to the 
approval or rejection of the Governor. 

Here then is the earliest date of the establishment of any- 
thing like a municipal government, in which the people were 
permitted to have any participation ; and for many years 
afterwards, the arbitrary control of the government over their 
acts, was the subject of continual discontent, and frequently 
of warm dispute and contention. 

Up to this time, and for several years afterwards, the peo- 
ple of Brooklyn were in a similar state of dependence in rela- 
tion to religious institutions, being obliged to cross over to the 
city, or travel to the adjoining settlements to enjoy the privi- 
lege of public worship. And although situated in sight of the 
metropolis, it does not seem to have been the most popular 
place of settlement. It was early outstripped by the more 
inland locations, both in the number and wealth of its inhabi- 
tants. Even Bedford, a little village within its present char- 
tered limits, at the distance of 3 miles from the ferry, was an 
early rival of what is now the metropolis of Long Island. 
There are many still living who can remember, when almost 
all the dwellings in Brooklyn (proper) were scattered along, 
on what are called Fulton and Main streets, with scarcely two 
of them adjoining ; while above the junction, they were " few 
and far between." 

The population of this town, at different periods, has been 
as follows : — 

In 17C6 '64 Freeholders 

" 1802 86 " 

"1814 3,805 Total population. 

"1816 4,402 " 

« 1820 - - . - - - 7,475 " 

"1825 10,791 " 

«1830 15,295 " 

"1835 24,310 

"1840 36,233 M 

"1845 ------ 59,574 

In 1807, that part of the town contiguous to the ferries had 



364 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

become so compact, as to be erected into a fire-district, with 
the powers usually annexed to such an act of incorporation. 

In 1816 an act was obtained, though with a strong opposi- 
tion from a portion of the inhabitants, investing the most po- 
pulous part of the town with village powers. This gave a 
powerful impulse to the growth of the place, which soon be- 
came so much enlarged, as to induce a desire for more ex- 
tended privileges. 

Accordingly an Act was passed by the Legislature April 8th, 
1834, incorporating the whole territory of the town of Brook- 
lyn, under a City Charter. This gave a mighty impulse to 
the progress of the place, and under the influence of the 
spirit of improvement, which, at that juncture pervaded the 
I land, the guardians of this infant city were disposed and en- 
couraged to lay its foundations deep and large. The greatest 
undertaking of that day, and one which involved the heaviest 
responsibilities, was the erection of a City Hall, upon a 
scale, and at an expense, that nothing but the sanguine spirit 
of the day, would seem to excuse. And though the work was 
arrested, by the revulsion that followed, when the walls had 
scarcely risen above their foundations, they are calculated to 
give some idea of the magnitude of the work. And the fol- 
lowing description, published at the time, will give the reader 
a more extended view of the details of the plan: — 

" Brooklyn City Hall, now erecting, is situated at the 
intersection of Fulton, Court and Joralemon streets, occupy- 
ing an entire block, forming a scalene triangle, of 269 feet 
on Fulton street, 250 on Court street, and 222 on Joralemon 
street. The exterior of the building is to be constructed of 
marble, and to have porticoes on the three fronts, with columns 
36 feet, 6 inches high, ornamented with capitals of the Gre- 
cian order, from the design of the Tower of the Winds, rest- 
ing on a pedestal base, 17 feet high, which when finished, 
will be 62 feet from the ground to the top of the cornice. 
The angles are to be surmounted by domes, and rising from 
the centre of the building, will be a tower of 125 feet high, 
which will be enriched with a cornice and entablature, sup- 
ported with Caryatides standing on pedestals. The whole 
will have a most splendid and imposing appearance when 
finished. 

" The interior will be finished in the most chaste and dur- 
able style of architecture, calculated to accommodate the 
different public offices, courts, &c, attached to the city of 
Brooklyn." 



SECT. 22.] BROOKLYN. 365 * 

In giving this detail for the information of his Long Island 
readers in general, the writer need not assure the citizens of 
Brooklyn, that he has no invidious design in relation to them. 
This stupendous undertaking, though arrested in its commence- 
ment, by uncontrollable circumstances, not only constitutes 
an important item in the early history of the city, but is 
fraught with instruction to individuals and communities. And 
as corporations, as well as individuals, often learn wisdom by 
dear-bought experience, should these massive walls never 
rise higher, the expenditure may not be wholly in vain. 
They will stand as a friendly beacon to warn the future guar- 
dians of the city of the mistakes and errors of by-gone 
days.* 

But the City of Brooklyn, with its constantly increasing 
energies, and under the smiles of a benignant providence, has 
already risen superior to all the untoward events of former 
years. Although still in her teens, she not only embraces, 
within her own jurisdiction, nearly half of the whole popula- 
tion of Long Island, but has already attained to the proud 
eminence of the Second city of the Empire State. And 
though placed in the shadow of the great commercial metro- 
polis of the new world, she is sharing the honour, with her 
elder sister, of increasing the facilities of trade and commerce. 
The Atlantic Dock, with its extensive store-houses, when 
completed, will be one of the most stupendous works of the 
kind in our country. 

The rapid increase in the population of this city, in the last 
few years, is probably without a parallel. More than one third 
of its present number has been added, within five years ; and 
yet scarcely a tenth part of its territory is occupied. When 
New York becomes what London is at the present time, is it 
improbable, that Brooklyn will be what New York now is ? 

There is one fact, however, in regard to the increasing popu- 
lation of this place, which has so important a connexion with 
its peculiar interests, that it merits particular notice. 

The contiguity of situation and facility of intercourse be- 
tween Brooklyn and New York, have induced thousands, 
whose entire business concerns lie in the latter, to make their 
domicil in the former city. This arrangement, though condu- 
cive to personal convenience does not, in ordinary cases, ex- 

* Since the above was penned, the writer has been informed, that the 
Corporation of Brooklyn have recently determined to proceed with the 
erection of their City Hall on a reduced scale, and consequently at a di- 
mLoished expense. 



366 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART % 

ert the happiest influence on the public weal. It is extremely 
difficult for any man, to take all that interest in the good 
government of a place, where he considers himself a mere 
lodger, that would be felt, if he realized, that all his interests 
both personal and pecuniary, were identified with the commu- 
nity, in which his political rights and responsibilities are in- 
volved. And his daily absence, during the hours of business, 
from the place of his legal residence, not only prevents him, 
in multiplied instances, from exercising many important rights, 
but necessarily precludes him from exerting that influence on 
society, that he would otherwise possess. And yet it is 
believed, that every man ought to feel himself under solemn 
obligations to the communit}', in which the providence of God 
> has fixed his residence, to labour for the advancement of its 
intellectual, moral, political and religious interests. This is 
not the doctrine of selfishness, or the mere spirit of clanship. 
It is only the extension of the principle, on which the God of 
nature has founded the domestic circle, for the benefit of hu- 
man society. And if every man would faithfully discharge 
his duty to his own family, the whole world would be well 
taken care of. So, if every man should act up to the responsi- 
bilities, both civil and sacred, which he owes to the commu- 
nity of which he is a citizen, there is no reason to doubt, that 
its interests would be advanced, without any injury to those 
with which it is surrounded. The writer has witnessed so 
much loss of salutary influence, resulting from inattention to 
this great principle, that he feels constrained to urge it upon 
the serious consideration of all those, who are thus situated in 
the vicinity of the great city. 

Brooklyn, at this time, exhibits little of the aspect, which 
it bore at the commencement of the present century. In 
the city proper, there is scarcely a single edifice of former 
days remaining. In other parts of the town, there are many 
of the ancient Dutch houses and barns, which remind the 
survivors of a former generation, of the days of yore ; among 
which is the noted stone house, erected on the east side of 
Gowanus Bay, in 1699, by Nicolas Vechte ; now generally 
known as the Cortelyou house. It is probably the most 
ancient dwelling on the island, though it varies little in 
age, from that mentioned in New Utrecht. As that is immor- 
talized by the death of Gen. Woodhull, this is celebrated as 
being the headquarters of the Commander-in-chief, previous 
to the battle of Long Island. The body of the house is built 
of stone, the gable ends above the eaves, being of brick, pro- 



SECT. 22.] BROOKLYN. 367 

bably imported from Holland ; with the date inserted, in iron 
figures, in the mason work. It bids fair to stand as long as 
the taste of the owners may permit. 

The U. S. .Navy Yard, situated on the Wallabout bay, is 
worthy of notice. This ground, comprising an area of about 
40 acres, was ceded to the United States in 1801, and has 
since been occupied as a national depot and ship-yard. And 
here a large dry dock is to be constructed at a vast expense. 
There is a large Naval Hospital, in the vicinity, where the 
sick, aged or disabled seamen are furnished with comfortable 
quarters, and medical attendance. The adjoining burial 
ground has already numerous occupants, and their number is 
annually increasing. 

The Naval Lyceum, established in 1833, by officers of the 
navy, is worthy of distinct mention, as a literary institution 
connected with this establishment. It has a library and mu- 
seum, both of which are receiving constant additions, for 
which it enjoys peculiar facilities. 

Near the Navy Yard, or within its precincts is the spot, 
where 11,000 American citizens were buried from the loath- 
some prison ships, in which they were inhumanly incarcerat- 
ed, in the revolutionary war. Particulars need not be men- 
tioned, ns they are detailed at length in every history of those 
trying tin* s, with which every patriotic reader is familiar. 

When t!ie hill was dug away for the construction of the 
Navy Yard, the bones of these numerous victims of British 
cruelty were disclosed, where the bodies had been huddled to- 
gether, in the most promiscuous manner. The writer recol- 
lects to have stood by, and beheld skulls and feet, arms and 
legs, sticking out of the crumbling bank in the wildest disor- 
der. The bones were all carefully collected by the workmen 
for future sepulture. 

A small vault was subsequently constructed, a short distance 
from the spot, on Jackson street, whither the bones were con- 
veyed and deposited, by one of the grandest processions from 
the city of New York, that those days had ever witnessed. 
Thirteen coffins, filled with the bones of these martyrs to li- 
berty, were carried in the procession, which took place, May 
2Gth, 1808, under the direction of the Tammany Society. 
Besides these, 18 hogsheads of bones were collected and 
deposited in the same vault. 

At this time, no doubt, it was contemplated, that here, 
these relies might rest, without further molestation or en- 
croachment, till the trump of the archangel shall wake the 



368 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PAHT 2, 

dead. But the march of improvement has already encroached 
again on the bed of heroes. The vault is surrounded by 
the habitations of the living, whose tenants doubtless regard it 
as an undesirable neighbour ; while the patriotism of an indivi- 
dual, now no more, has been its only protettion.* 

Under these circumstances what can be done ? What 
ought to be done 1 The answer is obvious. Let the pro- 
prietors of the " Greenwood Cemetery" appropriate a suitable 
spot in their grounds for a vault, and let Brooklyn or New 
York, or both, furnish the means to build it ; and once more 
remove these revered relics, where they may have a final 
resting-place. And though the writer is no advocate for 
splendid mausoleums or expensive monuments, yet if the 
public decree of 1808 is ever to be carried into effect, there, 
on one of the highest eminences of Greenwood, is the proper 
place to rear a shaft, that shall tell to the shipping of all 
nations, as they enter the harbour, the tale of British cruelty 
to her own progeny. Though it has long been delayed, yet 
at last, let justice be done ; and let the venerated dead sleep 
undisturbed. Another consideration may be added. Green- 
wood is the daily resort of multitudes of our own citizens as 
well as strangers. The proposed arrangement would tenth 
every visiter a lesson, that could not fail to improve his moral 
and patriotic sensibilities ; and show to the world, that repub- 
lics are not always ungrateful. 

This necessarily brings to view the " Greenwood Ceme- 
tery," which is an interesting appendage of the city of 
Brooklyn. It was purchased by a Company incorporated 
April 18th, 1838, with a capital of ${00,000 in shares of 
8100 each, for a public burying-ground. It is situated on 
the high grounds, 3 miles south-west of the Ferry, near the 
village of Gowanus, and contains about 200 acres. While the 
location, the general elevation and unevenness of the ground, 
all mark it as a spot unlikely to be coveted by the spirit of 
improvement, and therefore may reasonably be expected to 
remain undisturbed for ages yet to come, it is impossible to 
convey to the mind of a stranger, a correct idea of the appro- 
priateness, beauty and solemn grandeur of the place. The 
surface is admirably diversified by hill and dale, while every 
now and then, a beautiful little lake is spread out in the valley. 

* The late Benjamin Romeyn, Esq., at an early period erected a small, 
but neat building over this vault, and thus protected it from the intrusion 
of every passer-by. It is said, that he subsequently purchased the ground, 
which was actually exposed to sale, for a corporation assessment ! 



SECT. 22.] BROOKLYN. 369 

The greater part of the area is deeply shaded with dense forest 
trees, (without underbrush) which give to the whole scene 
the sombre aspect, of the habitation of the dead. The grounds 
are not cut up into squares and parallelograms. No such 
figure is to be seen throughout the whole extent. But 
spacious avenues neatly gravelled, wind through every valley, 
encompassing numberless hillocks, and intersecting each other 
at every turn, The main avenue called the " Tour," in 
numerous windings forms a circuit of 3 miles. And besides 
this there are many others, which, in their aggregate, are 
vastly more extended, and from which it cannot be distin- 
guished except by the guide-boards, which silently point out 
the way. You might travel for hours, within this hallowed 
enclosure, with a fleet horse, and yet at every turn enter a 
new road. 

The work of appropriation seems to have just commenced. 
Though the grounds have been in the market more than 7 
years, and many have availed themselves of the opportunity 
of providing a narrow house for themselves and their families, 
and many have already been deposited here, yet they are 
so extensive and diversified, that it is only here and there you 
meet with a solitary vault, in the side of a hill, or an occasional 
monument on its summit. But here is an assembly that will 
never diminish, and is sure to increase, which it will probably 
do, till bone touches bone, and ashes mingle with ashes in 
kindred dust. 

The Ferries. 

The means of intercourse between this place and the city 
of New York is necessarily a topic of deep interest, not only 
to Brooklyn, but to all Long Island. In connection with 
this, the exclusive claims of the corporation of New York, to 
the jurisdiction and emoluments, not only of all the ferries 
that have been, or may be established, between these two 
rapidly increasing cities, but also of all the land lying between 
high and low water mark, on the Brooklyn shore, have con- 
stituted a subject of contention for more than a hundred years, 
and bid fair to be a matter of complaint and dispute in all 
time to come. 

Many of the inhabitants of Long Island are probably igno- 
rant of the fact, that the jurisdiction of their towns and right 
of soil, do not, in all cases, extend to the territory, that is alter- 
nately covered and laid bare by the flowing and ebbing tide : 

16* 



370 ANNALS OP THE TOWNS. [PART % 

not even when, by the hand of art, the land has been raised 
above the level of the water. 

As this is a point of general interest, and involves princi- 
ples with which even our children should be made acquainted, 
it is necessary to present the grounds on which this singular 
claim is made on the one hand, and resisted on the other. 
And both to save time and insure correctness, the writer avails 
himself of the following abstract from the various Charters 
and Acts on which this controversy rests, as contained in 
Judge Furman's Notes on the town of Brooklyn, published in 
1S24:— 

" The difference between this town and the city of New 
York relative to the water rights of the former, has deservedly 
excited the attention and interest of our inhabitants, as in- 
volving property to a great amount, and unjustly withholding 
from our town a revenue, which would enable it to improve 
with almost unparalleled rapidity. In order that each person 
so interested may form a correct opinion of the subject matter 
in dispute, the Compiler has thought proper, under this head, 
to lay before them the foundations of the claims on both sides 
of the question. 

"October 18, 1667. In the reign of Charles II., Richard 
Nicolls, Esq., Governor General of the Province of New York, 
under his Royal Highness James, the Duke of York, &c, 
afterwards James II. of England, granted to the inhabitants of 
this town a confirmatory patent, acknowledging that they were 
rightfully, legally and by authority, in possession of the pro- 
perty and privileges they then enjoyed. The patent after 
naming the patentees, and describing the bounds of the town, 
and binding by the River and not by high water mark, pro- 
ceeds to say, ' Together with all havens, harbors, creeks, 
marshes, waters, rivers, lakes, fisheries.' * Moreover, I do 
hereby give, ratify and confirm unto the said patentees and 
their associates, their heirs, successors and assigns, all the 
rights and privileges belonging to a town within this govern- 
ment." Under this patent the town of Brooklyn justly claims 
the land between high and low water mark on their shore, in 
opposition to the claims of the corporation of the city of New 
York ; and an equal right with them to erect ferries between 
the town of Brooklyn and the city of New York. 

" It does not appear that there was any adverse claim on 
the part of New York, until the 27th of April, 1686, nineteen 
years after the date of the Brooklyn patent, when the Corpo- 
ration of New York obtained a charter from Governor Don- 



SECT. 22.] BROOKLYN. 371 

gan, by which the ferries were granted to them, but not a word 
mentioned about the land between high and low water mark 
on the Brooklyn side. From the reading of this charter, it ap- 
pears as if the Governor was doubtful, as to his right even to 
grant the ferry, for it contains an express saving of all the 
rights of all other persons, bodies politic and corporate, their 
heirs, successors and assigns, in as ample a manner, as if that 
charter had not been made. 

" May 13, 1686. The freeholders and inhabitants of Brook- 
lyn, somewhat apprehensive of encroachments by New- York, 
obtained from Governor Dongan, a patent under the seal of 
the Colony, fully confirming that granted them by Governor 
Nicolls. 

" May 6, 1691. An act was passed by the Governor, Coun- 
cil and General Assembly of the Colony of New-York, " for 
settling, quieting and confirming unto the cities, towns, ma- 
nors, and freeholders within this Province, their several grants, 
patents and rights respectively." By this act the freeholders 
and inhabitants of the town of Brooklyn were confirmed in 
the rights they possessed and enjoyed under their two several 
patents. 

' 4 October 12, 1694. The Corporation of New- York, not 
thinking their foothold on the Brooklyn side sufficiently se- 
cure, purchased of one William Morris, for no specific con- 
sideration, a piece of land in Brooklyn near the ferry. This 
deed is the foundation of the Corporation claim to their land 
in the village of Brooklyn. 

" Bent on unjustly wresting from the town of Brooklyn their 
water right, the Corporation, on the 19th of April, 1703, ob- 
tained from Governor Cornbury, a man infamous for his vices, 
and disregard of justice, another charter, in which they came 
out more openly than before, and claimed the vacant land to 
high water mark, on Nassau Island, reserving to the inhabit- 
ants of Brooklyn the right of transporting themselves in their 
own boats ferriage free, to and from New- York.* By this 
charter, no matter how ample soever they might have con- 
sidered it at the time, they obtained nothing but vacant land 
to high water mark ; that is, the land which was not already 
granted, and in the possession of some other person or persons, 
which was not the fact as to the land on the Brooklyn side, 
it being vested in the patentees, their heirs, successors and as- 

* Although the bounds of this grant commence about 2.50 yards in 
the to wo of^Bushwick, (now Williamsburgh,) the Corporation of New- 
York have made no claim to land beyond the Wallabouglit. 



372 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

signs forever ; so that the only power or authority remaining 
in the Governor was, to grant the Corporation of New- 
York, the privilege of buying the water rights of the inhab- 
itants of Brooklyn. But that would not answer their purpose, 
for those rights could be bought cheaper of Governor Corn- 
bury, than they could of this town. 

" This proceeding on the part of New-York stimulated the 
inhabitants of Brooklyn to obtain from the Colonial Legisla- 
ture in 1721, an act confirming their patent rights. 

" To obviate the effects of this law, and strengthen the 
charter of Cornbury, which from the circumstances under 
which it was obtained, the Corporation feared was invalid, on 
the 15th of January, 1730, they procured from Governor 
John Montgomerie, a new charter confirming their pretended 
right to the land to high water mark on our shore* 

" The grants from the Corporation of New- York, under 
their two charters for the water lots on the Brooklyn side, are 
very artfully and ingeniously drawn. By those grants are 
only conveyed " all the estate, right, title, interest, property, 
claim, and demand whatsoever, in law and equity" of them 
the said Corporation ; and their covenant for quiet possession 
only extends to them and their successors, and not against any 
other persons lawfully claiming the premises. These grants, 
in order to save the Corporation harmless against the claims 
of Brooklyn, also contained a covenant to the following ef- 
fect : " It is hereby covenanted, granted and agreed upon by 
and between the parlies to these presents, (that is, the Corpo- 
ration of New-York and the person to whom they give the 

* There was some peculiar circumstances attending the consummation 
of this charter, which the Compiler thinks ought to be known. A short 
time previous to obtaining the charter, the Common Council of the City 
of New- York resolved that the sum of £ 1400 was necessary for the pro- 
curing of that instrument ; £1000 of which sum they determined to raise 
immediately by a loan on interest for one year ; which they accordingly 
did, and gave a mortgage for that amount to James De Lancey, Esq., dat- 
ed January 14, 1730. Directly after the execution of this mortgage 
they resolved to address the Governor, " for the great favour and good- 
ness shewn to this Corporation in granting their petition, in ordering and 
directing his Majesty's letters patent for a new charter and confirmation 
to this Corporation," and probably informing him that they had obtained 
the money. The consequence was, that on the next day, January 15, 
1730, the charter was completed, and on paying the £1()U0, was deliver- 
ed to them on the 1 Ith day of February, 173D, almost a month after its 
date. By which it appears that the Corporation of New- York still con- 
tinued purchasing the right of the town of Brooklyn from the Colonial 
Governors. Sec List of Corporation Charters and grants, 1747. 



SECT. 22.] BROOKLYN. 373 

grant,) and the true intent and meaning hereof also is, and it 
is hereby declared, that this present grant, or any words, or 
any thing in the same expressed, or contained shall not be ad- 
judged, deemed, construed or taken to be a covenant or cove- 
nants on the part and behalf of the said parties of the first 
part, (that is, the Corporation of New-York) or their succes- 
sors for any purpose or purposes whatsoever, but only to pass 
the estate, right, and interest, they have or may lawfully claim 
by virtue of their several charters, of in and to the said pre- 
mises." Which covenant evidently shews a want of confi- 
dence in the validity of their title, on the part of the Corpo- 
ration. 

" October 14, 1732. An act was passed by the General As- 
sembly of this Colony, " confirming unto the city of New- 
York its rights and privileges." By this act no addition was 
made to their former pretended rights. 

"November 14, 1753. The freeholders and inhabitants of 
this town appointed Jacobus Lefferts, Peter Vandervoort, Ja- 
cob Remsen, Rem Remsen, and Nicholas Vechte, trustees, 
11 to defend our patent where in any manner our liberties, 
privileges and rights in our patent specified is encroached, les- 
sened or taken away, bv the commonalty of the city of New- 
York." 

" Not satisfied with the encroachments they had made, the 
Corporation began to question the right of the inhabitants of 
Brooklyn to cross to and from New- York, ferriage free in their 
own boats, and to carry over the inhabitants in those boats; — 
the result was, that in July, 1745, a suit was commenced by 
one of the inhabitants of Brooklyn, named Hendrick Remsen, 
against the Corporation of New-York, which was tried before 
a jury in Westchester county. A special verdict was found 
setting forth all its patents and charters, and among other 
things, that the road from which the said Hendrick Remsen 
ferried the inhabitants of Brooklyn to and from New-York, 
" then and long before was laid out for a public highway lead- 
ing down to low water mark on the East River between the 
places aforesaid called the Wallaboucht and the Red Hook on 
Nassau Island, and the jurors aforesaid upon their oath afore- 
said, do further say, that the River called the East River, over 
which the said Hendrick did carry the persons and goods 
aforesaid, from the said lands between the Wallaboucht and 
the Red Hook, is a large and public and navigable river, used 
by his Majesty's ships and other ships and smaller vessels em- 
ployed in trade and commerce, and hath always been so used 



374 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

from the first settlement of this Colony." On argument 
judgment was rendered by the Supreme Court of this Colony 
in the month of October, 1775, in favour of Hendrick Rem- 
sen, that he recover his damages against the Mayor, Alder- 
men and Commonalty of the city of New-York, and the sum 
of one hundred and eighteen pounds, fourteen shillings and ten 
pence half penny for his costs and charges. An appeal to the 
King and Council from this decision, was brought by the Cor- 
poration, which was not determined in consequence of the 
Revolutionary war. There is a tradition in this town that 
the Corporation of New-York were so apprehensive of this 
claim on the part of the town of Brooklyn, that, in order to 
disengage Hendrick Remsen from the interest of the town, 
they gave him a house and lot of land near Coenties Slip, in 
the city of New-York. How far this tradition is correct, the 
Compiler is unnble to say. — It appears however, that he, about 
that time, became in possession of such property, and the 
same remained in his family within the memory of some of 
our inhabitants. 

" Our two Patents are confirmed by the Constitution of 
this State, which confirms all grants of land within the State, 
made by the authority of the King of Great Britain or his 
predecessors, prior to the 14lh of August, 1775. 

" The Compiler thinking it would not be uninteresting to 
his fellow citizens to see a statement of the amount received 
by the Corporation of New-York for quit rent on the water 
lots claimed by them, has given the following short statement. 

" The Commissioners of the Sinking Fund of the City of 
New-York have received, from August 23d, 1313, to Dec* 31, 
1324. 

For Water lot rents 817,635 24 

Commutation for water lot rents, 17,275 41 



$34,910 65 



" The Corporation of New- York during the present year 
1824, have received for water lot rents the sum of $8 8G2 97. 

" Within a short time the jurisdiction of the village of Brook- 
lyn has been extended beyond low water mark, leaving the 
pretended right of soil still in the Corporation of New- York,* 

* The jurisdiction of New-York by their first charter in 1686, was 
limited to Jow water mark around Manhattan Island ; but was extended 
to low water mark on the Brooklyn side by Governor Montgomery's 
charter in 1730. B v 



SECT. 22.] BROOKLYN. 375 

August term, 1821, in the case of Udall vs. the Trustees of 
Brooklyn, the Supreme Court of this Stale decided, that 
King's County, of which the village of Brooklyn is part, in- 
cludes all the wharves, docks, and other artificial erections in 
the East River, opposite to the City of New-York, though 
west of the natural low water mark on the Nassau or Long- 
Island shore ; and the jurisdiction of the village extends to 
the actual line of low water, whether formed by natural or ar- 
tificial means. Same term, in the case of Striker vs. the 
Mayor, &c, of the City of New-York, the Supreme Court 
decided, that the city and county of New-York includes the 
whole of the Rivers and harbour adjacent to actual low water 
mark, on the opposite shores, as the same may be formed, 
from time to time, by docks, wharves and other permanent 
erections ; and although the jurisdiction of the city does not 
extend so as to include such wharves, or artificial erections, 
yet it extends over the ships and vessels floating on the water, 
though they be fastened to such wharves or docks. 

April 9, 1824. The Legislature of the State of New-York, 
in the act to amend the act entitled " an Act to incorporate 
and vest certain powers in the freeholders and inhabitants of 
the village of Brooklyn, in the County of King's," granted this 
town concurrent jurisdiction with the City of New- York in 
the service of process, in actions civil and criminal, on board 
of vessels attached to our wharves ; and in the act for the es- 
tablishment of a Board of Health in the village of Brooklyn, 
authority is given to the said Board to remove all infected ves- 
sels from the wharves within the said village." 

Notwithstanding the establishment of the right of concur- 
rent jurisdiction in certain cases, it is still a mortifying fact 
to the city of Brooklyn, to see their own natural boundaries 
encroached upon, by another corporation lying on the other 
side of an arm of the sea — a public highway of the nation ; 
and still more to see it monopolizing to itself, the vast income 
of ferries, in which they have an equal interest, and naturally 
an equal claim. Under these circumstances, it is not strange 
that the inhabitants of this city have always exhibited a high 
degree of sensitiveness on this point, and never become re- 
conciled to what they regard as a gross usurpation. 

Whether the door is still open for the recovery of what 
Brooklyn regards as its natural and chartered rights, is a 
question for the lawyers to argue, and the judges to decide ; 
but one thing is certain, that its inhabitants will never relin- 
quish the privilege of complaining, that they have been de- 



376 ANNALS OP THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

frauded of their rights and privileges by a venial, provincial 
Governor. 

It may be added here, as having a connection with this sub- 
ject, that an Act was past by the last Legislature of this State, 
dated May 14th, 1845, taking from the Corporation of New 
York, the power of granting ferries between New York and 
Long Island, and vesting it in an independent Board of Com- 
missioners to be appointed by the Governor, out of any coun- 
ties other than King's, Queen's, Suffolk, Richmond or New 
York. What is to be its operation, time only can disclose. 

Location and dates of the several Ferries between New York 
and Brooklyn. 

The first regular ferry between New York and Brooklyn, 
was probably established about the middle of the 17th centu- 
ry, though its precise date cannot be ascertained. In Corn- 
bury's charter, given in 1708, it is stated that the Mayor, 
Aldermen, and Commonalty of the city of New York, set 
forth in their petition, that they had a right, " under divers 
ancient charters and grants, by divers former Governors and 
Commanders-in-chief, in a certain ferry from the said city of 
New York, over the East river to Nassau Island, (alias Long 
Island,) and from the said Island to the said City again, a^nd 
have possessed the same, and received all the profits, bene- 
fits and advantages thereof, for the space of fifty years 
and upwards. Although it is denied on the part of Brook- 
lyn, that the Dutch government ever conferred the right of 
establishing ferries, on the Corporation of New York ; yet the 
above extract is undoubtedly correct as to the length of time 
that a ferry had existed. 

"From the Dutch records preserved in the office of the 
Secretary of State, we find, that on Feb. 13th, 1652, the 
Burgomasters of New Amsterdam, applied to Gov. Stuyve- 
sant for the ferry to Breukelen, to defray city expenses. — Re- 
fused. 

" On Oct. lOlh, 1654, an Ordinance was passed to regulate 
the ferry. The rates of ferriage were established. Footmen 
paid 3 stvyvcrs each, except Indians, who paid 6 each, unless 
there were two or more. 

"March 19th, 1658, Harmanus Van Bossom hired the 
ferry from Gov. Stuy vesant, at auction, for three years at 300 
guilders per year. 



SECT. 22.] BROOKLYN. 377 

"June 15th, 1663, the said Van Bossom was in possession 
of the ferry. The Governor then allowed him 50 guilders 
for publick services at the ferry." 

The last date, it will be observed, was the year before the 
conquest ; consequently, the ferry remained in the hands of 
the Governor as long as the Dutch government existed. 

This ferry was established between what is now the foot 
of Joralemon-street in Brooklyn, and a creek extending up 
into Broad-street in New York. 

At a subsequent period, it was removed to the Fly-market, 
at the foot of Maiden-lane, and its present landing in Brook- 
lyn. In 1814, the landing on the New York side was again 
changed to its present location. 

August 1st, 1795, a new ferry was established between 
Catharine-street in New York, and Main-street, Brooklyn, 
and has remained unchanged. From that time, the former 
has been familiarly called the Old Ferry, and this the New. 

What is now called the Jackson-street ferry, was first es- 
tablished between Walnut-street in New York, and Little- 
street in Brooklyn. The first lease is dated Dec. 1st, 1817. 

The application for the South ferry, between Whitehall and 
Atlantic-street, was made in 1834, and being met with great 
opposition, was under discussion nearly 2 years. It was 
finally carried, and the first lease is dated Sept. 1st, 1835; 
the rent to commence May 16lh, 1836, at which time the 
ferry was opened. 

These constitute all the ferries now in operation between 
New York and Brooklyn. 

Improvements of the Ferries, 

It is scarcely possible to convey to a mind, that has not 
been conversant with this subject, during the last 40 years, 
any adequate idea of the improved facilities of these ferries. 
Within that period, the crossing of this narrow arm of the 
sea, was frequently more formidable than is now a voyage to 
Europe. The writer can distinctly recollect, when, within 
the limits of the present century, the only craft plying on 
these ferries, consisted of oar-barges for foot passengers, and 
sprit-sail boats for horses and carriages ; and he himself has 
waited from morning to night on the Brooklyn side, in a 
north-east storm, before any boat ventured to cross to the 
city. And frequently the passage was made with manifest 
hazard, and sometimes attended with serious disaster and loss 



378 ANNALS OP THE TOWNS. [PART % 

of life. The writer was once carried overboard in the mid- 
die of the stream, by the barge being brought in contact with 
a vessel lying at anchor. 

The first decided improvement was the introduction of a 
horse boat upon the Catharine-street ferry. This was started 
April 3rd, 1814. It was a boat of 8 horse power and crossed 
in from 12 to 20 minutes. 

The first steam-boat (the Nassau) was put on the Fulton 
ferry, May 8th, 1814. This was a decided improvement in 
favour of the public, but, on the score of expense in the in- 
fancy of Steam navigation, was regarded as unprofitable to 
the company. In consequence of this, horse-boats were in- 
troduced and continued for several years on this and other 
ferries ; the latter being entirely precluded from the use of 
Steam, by the monopoly granted to Fulton and Livingston. 
The Fulton Company, being obliged by their contract to put 
a second steam-boat on their ferry in 1819, they were allowed 
by the Common Council to substitute a horse-boat in its 
stead. 

After the monopoly above mentioned was annihilated by 
the decision of the U. S. Court in 1824, the way was opened 
for the use of steam-boats on all the ferries, which were in- 
troduced as fast as they were found profitable. 

Near the commencement of the present century, the erec- 
tion of a bridge between New York and Brooklyn, of a single 
arch, so lofty as to form no obstruction to navigation, and so 
strong as to bid defiance to the winds of heaven, had become 
the great topic of conversation, and was discussed with as 
much zeal, by all classes of citizens, as the poisonous proper- 
ties of the poplar worm in 1803, or the building of paper 
cities on quagmires in 1835 — 6. But now the idea of a 
bridge is as rare a conception as " a fifth wheel to a coach," 
and is about as desirable. At any hour of the day or night, 
you can pass from one city to the other, with equal safety and 
greater rapidity, than you could walk the same distance on 
terra firma. 

Formerly the breadth of the strait was much greater than 
at present. The practice of docking-out has been carried to 
such an extent on both sides, that the width of the stream is 
reduced about one third. The following are the direct dis- 
tances between the landing points on the several ferries. 

The South ferry, 13 CO yards ; or 20 yards less than three 
quarters of a mile. 

Fulton ferry, 731 yards. 



SfiCT. 22.] BROOKLYN. 379 

Catharine street ferry, 736 yards. 

Jackson. street ferry, 707 yards. 

On all of these, steam boats are constantly plying, so that 
the intervals of their departure, (at least on the Fulton ferry,) 
rarely exceed 3 minutes, and the passage is made in 3 to 5 
minutes. Under these circumstances, who would think of 
crossing on a bridge, if one stood in his way? 

The Rates of Ferriage, 

We have already noticed incidentally, that the charge for 
a foot passenger in 1654, was 3 stuyvers. 

In 1693 it was " 8 stuyvers in wampum" (which was still 
used as a circulating medium,) or 2 pence in silver. 

In 1732, the ferriage was '• ten grains of Sevil silver or 
Mexican plate, or 2 pence in bills of credit." 

During the revolutionary war, it was raised to 6 pence, and 
was afterwards reduced to 2 pence. It remained at this, till 
the introduction of steam-boats, when by an act of the Legis- 
lature the company was authorized to charge 4 cents on those 
boats, while it remained as before on other craft. 

This law remains unaltered, though the company, some 
years ago, voluntarily reduced the ferriage to 3 cents, and 
since Feb. 1844, they have charged only 2 cents. 

The increase of patronage has kept full pace with the in- 
crease of the facilities for crossing. This will be manifest 
both from the rents paid by the companies, and the income 
received. 

The Fulton Ferry Company was founded on a lease given 
to Robert Fulton and William Cutting, by the Mayor and 
Common Council of New York, dated Jan. 24th, 1814, for 
25 years, at an annual rent of $4 000 for the first 18 years, 
and $4,500 on the remaining 7 years. During the first 18 
months, the dividends of the company, including the surplus 
revenue on a capital stock of $68,000, was at the rate of 25 
per cent., after defraying all expenses. And for the first 7 
years, according to the statement of the Treasurer, under 
oath, the dividends varied from 21^ to 16^, giving an average 
of nearly 20 per cent. 

In consequence of the establishment of the South Ferry, 
during the existence of the above contract, the Fulton Com- 
pany obtained an extension of their lease. In lSS'J, the 
leases of both ferries were renewed to the Fulton Company, 
at an annual rent of $12,000. 



380 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

At the expiration of these leases they were both renewed, 
May 1st, 1844, to the same company, at an annual rent of 
$30,5C0. 

The following enumeration, made by a competent person 
standing at the Fulton Ferry on the days specified, will afford 
some idea of the actual amount of crossing, at this single 
ferry, 8 years ago. 

"Sept. 13, 1834. Pleasure wagons, 64 — coaches, 22 — 
gigs, 43 — saddle horses, 22 — milk carts, 49 — loaded carts, 313 
— empty, 138 — loaded wagons, 52 — empty, 2 7 — stages, 5 — 
sulkies, 3 — hand carts, 7 — foot passengers, 7,988. 

"Oct. 3d, 1834. Pleasure wagons, 56 — coaches, 31 — 
gigs, 60 — saddle horses, 40 — milk carts, 51 — loaded carts, 
321 — empty, 140 — loaded wagons, 47 — empty, 30— stages, 
25 — sulkies, 19 — hand carts, 5 — foot passengers, 8,251." 

According to this enumeration, the number of foot passen- 
gers that crossed this ferry in the course of a year, at that 
period, would fall little short of 3,000,000; and the annual 
income from passengers alone must have been $60,000 a year, 
while the whole amount of ferriage at the established rates, 
would probably fall little short of $100,000. 

As the population of Brooklyn has considerably more than 
doubled since that time, and its principal increase is of those 
who do business in New York, the aggregate amount of actual 
intercourse between the two cities must have been immensely 
increased on all the ferries. Add to this the increased facili- 
ties for travelling on the island, particularly the rail road, 
which has since been opened, and which, in the first year, 
conveyed 130,100 passengers, and you can scarcely form an 
exaggerated estimate of the amount. It has been recently 
estimated that the average number of foot passengers, that 
daily cross the Fulton ferry at the present time, is from 
12,000 to 15,000. And the income from nearly 5,000 is ne- 
cessary only to pay the lease-rent of the Company. 

Literary Institutions. 

Although Brooklyn abounds with schools, from the abeceda- 
rian to the seminary of literature, science, and polite accom- 
plishments, it has no public institution of a strictly educational 
character, except the system of Public Schools. These are 
understood to be, in general, in a flourishing condition, and 
cannot fail, under judicious regulation, to be a great and last- 
ing blessing to the rapidly increasing population. However 



SECT. 22.] BROOKLYN. 381 

highly we may prize our Seminaries and Universities, and 
they are indispensable to the prosperity of our country, and 
every man, whether he directly enjoys their advantages or not, 
has an interest in their prosperity, it is to the primary school 
that we must look, for that general education of the great mass 
of mind, on which the perpetuity of our free institutions 
depends. 

There are numerous schools of a more select character and 
of a higher grade than the public schools, but as they are all 
private institutions, conducted by individual enterprise, no 
special efforts have been made to ascertain their condition. 

The "Brooklyn Collegiate Institute," which was erected 
by a Company incorporated in 182y, and consecrated to 
female education, is a noble edifice, and peculiarly adapted to 
the end designed. For several years, a nourishing Boarding 
School was maintained, but it is now no more, and the build- 
ing has been converted into a hotel. 

Amidst the regrets resulting from such a transformation, it 
is cheering to record the fact, that another Company has been 
formed in the year past, who have erected and nearly com- 
pleted a spacious edifice on Pierrepont street, which is to be 
devoted to female education, under the direction of Mr. Crit- 
tenden, who has long been known to the public as the accom- 
plished Principal of the Albany Female Institute. The citi- 
zens of Brooklyn may, with propriety, felicitate themselves, in 
the prospects presented in the establishment of this institution. 

But schools are not the only institutions of learning which 
every community needs, and which this city furnishes. 

The "Brooklyn Apprentices' Library Association" 
was incorporated in 1S22, and has exerted a salutary influ- 
ence on those, for whose special benefit it was established. It 
has a library of nearly 3,000 volumes. 

The "Brooklyn Lyceum" was organized in Oct. 1833, 
and has been successfully maintained. Both of these institu- 
tions are now associated or merged in one organization, under 
the name of the " Brooklyn Institute." The " City Li- 
brary," which was incorporated in 1839, and now contains 
3,000 volumes, is connected with the Institute. 

A "Lyceum of Natural History" has also existed for 5 
or 6 years, and is still maintained with commendable zeal. 

The "Hamilton Literary Association," formed in 1830, 
and the "Franklin Literary Association," more recently 
organized, are composed of young men, and designed for their 
special improvement. All these various institutions, when 



382 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

well conducted, cannot fail to produce a beneficial influence 
on the public mind. A community never will be thoroughly 
educated, till our young men and women cease to believe and 
say, they "finished" their education when they left the Semi- 
nary or the College. That educated man only discharges 
his duty to himself and to the community in which he lives, 
who feels that he is to be a scholar — a learner to his dying 
clay. Human life is one continuous period of tutelage. Educa- 
tion commences with the first dawnings of reason, and ought 
to be continued to the end of life. And in the acquisition of 
knowledge, vastly more depends on the diligence and applica- 
tion of the scholar, than the ability of the teacher. Hence, 
these various institutions, which afford the means of self- 
instruction, and occasionally of mutual instruction, are to be 
reckoned among the most important facilities for improving 
the public mind. It is a matter of unspeakable satisfaction, 
that they are increasing in the land, and find a place in all 
our cities and villages, and even in many of our country 
towns. 

Brooklyn has 3 Banks besides the Savings' Bank, with an 
aggregate capital of 81,000,000, and 2 Insurance Companies, 
with a capital of $450,000. 

Churches. 

Brooklyn has been recently and not improperly styled "a 
city of churches." But its title to this appellation has been 
acquired within the last 20 years. Its previous history, dur- 
ing almost two entire centuries, furnishes no claim to such a 
name. For more than 40 years after the first Christian ad- 
venturer pitched his tent within the present limits of this 
town, there was no house erected for the worship of the God 
of heaven. Those who loved the gates of Zion, were obliged 
to cross the river to New Amsterdam, or travel to Flatbush 
to enjoy the privilege of public worship. 

The first church erected in the town stood solitary and 
alone, during a period of 125 years. Just after the close of 
the revolutionary war, a small house of worship was erected 
bv another denomination ; and about 10 years after, a third. 
These three congregations continued in the exclusive occu- 
pancy of this ground, till after the village incorporation. 
And it is since the year 18*20, that the wonderful increase of 
churches has been made. Since that time, a large number 
of ecclesias ical organizations have been formed, which still 



SECT. 22.] BROOKLYN. 383 

exist, most of them in a flourishing condition, and not a few 
that are now no more. 

[n giving the history of the numerous churches in this city, 
those of the several denominations will be classed by them- 
selves, observing as nearly as may be, the chronological order 
in which they arose. 

The Reformed Dutch Church. 

In 1659, the people of Brooklyn, in view of the badness of 
the roads to Flatbush, and the inability of the aged minister 
there to bestow any considerable portion of labour upon them, 
petitioned the governor for permission to call a minister to 
reside in their town. As yet, no house of worship had been 
erected. But their request was granted, and the Rev. Hen- 
ricus SoJinus (Henry Selwyn) having been called from Hol- 
land, was installed, Sept. 3rd, 1660. About this time, a se- 
parate, but collegiate church, was organized, Mr. Polhemus 
having furnished Mr. Selwyn with a list of the members re- 
siding in this vicinity. Mr. Selwyn took leave of the con- 
gregation, July 22nd, 1664, and returned to Holland. And 
though he afterwards returned to this country, he never re- 
sumed his charge on the island. 

In 1666, the first house of worship was erected, and accord- 
ing to the Dutch custom of those days, was placed in the 
middle of the highway. It stood a little to the east of the 
junction of Fulton and Joralemon streets, near the present site 
of the Military Garden. It remained without material altera- 
tion just ICO years. 

In 1766, it gave place to the old stone church, which many 
still living can recollect, as occupying the same site at the 
commencement of this century. The walls were very thick 
and compact, so that they were demolished, as an eye-witness 
testifies, with immense labour. 

On the 4th of March, 1807, the Consistory resolved, that 
it was expedient to erect a new stone church ; and immediate 
measures were taken to carry the resolution into effect. The 
foundation was laid by day's work, and when it was prepared 
to receive the water-table, the corner-stone was laid, with ap- 
propriate services by the Rev. Peter Lowe, who had been in- 
vited for the occasion. The precise date is not retained, 
though it is known to have been before the 15th of May. 
The building was completed, at a cost of $13,745 53 ; and 
was dedicated Dec. 23rd, 1807, Dr. Livingston preaching the 
sermon, from Heb. iv. 12, This edifice was erected on the 



384 ANNALS OP THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

south side of what is now Joralemon street, standing back of 
the present edifice ; and though a very substantial building, 
was incapable of enlargement, which the increase of the con- 
gregation subsequently demanded. Accordingly, 

In J 834, the present brick Church was erected, and dedi- 
cated May 7th, 1835. It is a spacious edifice having a co- 
lonnade both in front and rear. 

Although Mr. Solinus, the first minister, was installed in 
this town, he was undoubtedly regarded as a collegiate pastor 
of the other churches, as his successors continued to be. 
Hence the ministers of this church were the same with those 
already mentioned in connexion with Flatbush, till the disso- 
lution of the collegiate charge. 

In 18(16, the Rev. Selah S. Woodhull, D.D., was installed 
sole pastor. He was dismissed in 1825, to enter on a profes- 
sorship in New Brunswick, where he died, Feb. 27th, in the 
40th year of his age. 

The Rev. Ebenezer Mason succeeded Dr. W. He resigned 
his charge, April 16th, 182S. This church having previously 
held its connexion with the Classis of New-York, was trans- 
ferred to the Classis of Long Island, Nov. 14th, 1826, under 
the care of which it has remained. 

The Rev. Peter P. Rouse was installed Oct. 13th, 1828, 
and died June 4th, 1832, in the 33rd year of his age. 

The Rev. Maurice W. Dwight, D.D., was installed on the 
4th sabbath in May, 1833, and is the present pastor. 

2. The Second, or Central Dutch Church was gathered by 
the labours of the Rev. John Garretson, who was appointed 
by the Board of Missions of the R. D. Church, to labour in 
Brooklyn. This appointment was unanimously approved by 
the L. I. Classis, Oct. 11th, 1836 ; and a church, consisting 
of 11 members was organized March 3rd, 1837. Mr. Garret- 
son left in November following. 

In Feb. 1N38, a call to Mr. Henry P. Tappan was declared 
in order, and the Classis met March 12th for the purpose of 
acting thereon. Mr. T. having accepted the call, the Classis 
proceeded to his examination ; which was not sustained. 
This decision was made, by ths unanimous vote of the Classis, 
consisting of 19 members, besides 2 deputati from sister-Clas- 
ses. 

The result produced a schism, which will ccme under notice 
hereafter. But the church proceeded to erect an edifice, the 



SECT. 22.] BROOKLYN. 3S5 

corner-stone of which was laid Sept. 16th, 1839. It is a 
brick building, 60 by 84 feet, and cost about $26,000. It 
stands on Henry street. 

The Rev. C. C. Van Arsdale laboured sometime with this 
infant church, and received a call, in April, 1839, to become 
its pastor ; which, after a considerable delay, he did not accept. 

In April, 1841, the Rev. Jacob Broadhead, D.D., was in- 
stalled pastor, and remains in the charge. 

3. The Third, or South Dutch Church, (at Gowanus,) was 
organized, July 14th, 1840. A church edifice had been pre- 
viously erected, in 1839, about a mile south of that village ; 
and subsequently, they purchased another in the village, 
which had been built in 1838, by the Fourth Presbyterian 
Church. They now occupy both buildings, holding service 
alternately in each. 

The Rev. Cornelius C. Van Arsdale first laboured about a 
year with this church in its infancy. 

The Rev. Samuel M. Woodbridge, the present pastor, was 
ordained, Dec. 12th, 174]. 

Episcopal Churches. 

1. The introduction of the Episcopal service into this 
town, was nearly coeval with the entrance of the British army. 
Although it has been conjectured that it was some years an- 
tecedent to that event, there is no evidence of the fact. Be- 
fore the revolution, the settlement was still very small, and all 
the inhabitants, it is believed, were connected with the Dutch 
congregation, which then constituted the only religious 
society. 

During the war, as it was natural to expect, the British 
officers had divine service performed, according to the forms 
of their own church. Where they usually met, is now not 
known, but with a truly catholic spirit, the Dutch people kind- 
ly allowed them the use of their church, when not occupied 
by their own ministers. This Gen. Johnson recollects as a 
fact. 

It appears from Mr. Fish's recent publication, that the Rev. 
James Sayre, officiated from 1778 to about the time of the 
"evacuation," in 1783. He then removed to Connecticut, 
where he died, Feb. 18th, 1798. 

The Rev. George Wright officiated in the following year. 
The place of meeting was a" private dwelling, in what is now 

17 



386 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

Fulton street. The congregation afterwards occupied a barn, 
and then a building which had been erected by the British 
during the war, which was fitted up for the purpose. In 1765, 
a small frame house, which had been erected on the present 
Episcopal burying ground in Fulton street, became the place 
of worship, and was consecrated by bishop Provost, in 1787, 
and the society was incorporated April *2:id of that year, un- 
der the style of the " Episcopal Church of Brooklyn." Mr. 
Wright removed in 1789. 

The Rev. Elijah D. RaVoone succeeded in the fall of 1789, 
and resigned in March, 1792, upon accepting a professorship 
in Columbia College. 

The Rev. Samuel Ncsbilt was the rector of this church from 
Jan. 1793 to 179S. June 22 J, 1795, the church was re- 
organized and incorporated under its present name, " St, 
Ann's Church" 

The Rev. John Ireland officiated from 179S to 1807. May 
30th, 18l 5, a new stone church was consecrated, which had 
been erected in the preceding year, on the corner of Sands 
and Washington street. The walls of this building were so 
much injured a few years afterwards, by the explosion of a 
powder house in the vicinity, that they were deemed unsafe, 
and the present edifice was erected in 1824. 

The Rev. Henry Fellus, D.D., was rector from 1807 to 
1814. 

The Rev. John P. K. Henshaw, D.D., from 1814 to '17. 
He removed to Baltimore, and in 1843 was elected bishop in 
Rhode Island. 

The Rev. Hugh Smith, D.D., from July 1817, to '19. 

The Rev. Henry XJ. Onderdonk, D.D., was the rector from 
Nov. 1819 to '27. He removed to Philadelphia, having been 
elected assistant bishop of that diocese, to the sole charge of 
which he succeeded on the death of bishop White. He re- 
signed his episcopate in 1844. 

The Rev. Charles P. Mclhaine, D.D., after officiating here 
from 1827 to '33, was elected bishop in Ohio in 1S32, and re- 
moved thither in the following year. 

The Rev. Benjamin C. Culler, D. D., the present rector, 
succeeded in 1833. 

2. St. John's Church was organized in 1826. The edifice 
was erected by the Rev. Evan M. Johnson, on his own 
ground, and at his own expense, who still continues to be the 
rector. It stands on Johnson street, corner of Washington, 



SECT. 22.] BROOKLYN. 3S7 

The congregation purchased the building and enlarged it in 
1832. 

In 1835 the Rev. Jacob W. Diller was employed as an as- 
sistant minister, who was succeeded by the Rev. Stephen Pat. 
terson. The Rev. C. S. Henry, D.D., now occupies that 
station. 

3. Calvary Free Church, (in Pearl street,) arose from the 
dust of one that had been formed in 1833, under the style of 
"St. Paul's," and was dissolved in 1840. The new organiza- 
tion was made in the same year, under the above name, at 
which time the Rev. William H. Lewis became the rector, 
and still remains. 

4. Christ's Church, (Clinton street,) was organized in 
1835. The Rev. Kingston Goddard became the rector, in 
1837. A temporary place of worship was occupied in Paci- 
fic street, till the present edifice was consecrated, July 28th, 
1843. In the summer of 184 1, the Rev. John S. Stone, D.D., 
succeeded to the rectorship. 

5. St. Luke's Church, (Clinton Avenue,) was organized 
in 1842, (from the elements of a defunct church which had 
been formed in 1835, under the name of Trinity Church,) 
when the Rev. Jacob W. Diller became the rector. The 
edifice is a stone building, 45 by 60 feet, which had been 
erected, and was consecrated in 1836. 

6. St. Mary's Church, (on Clason Avenue,) at the Wall- 
about, was organized in 1837, at which time a small edifice 
was erected, which was enlarged in 1841, so as to be capable 
of accommodating 300 persons. The Rev. Joseph Hunter, 
who commenced this enterprise with a Sabbath school, and 
acted as lay reader to the small assembly connected with it, is 
the rector. 

7. Emmanuel Church, (Sidney Place,) was organized in 
1839, and the edifice was erected in the following year. The 
Rev. Kingston Goddard was the first rector, and was suc- 
ceeded in 1844 by the Rev. Francis Vinton, who is now in 
charge. 

8. St. Th'omas' Church was organized in 1843, as a free 
church, under the ministry of the Rev. John F. Messenger. 



388 ANNALS OP THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

The place of worship is a small building on Navy street, near 
Myrtle Avenue, — but the congregation are now engaged in 
the erection of a new church on Willoughby street. 

" A large Gothic Edifice is now in the progress of erection, 
by E. J. Bartow, Esq., but whether intended for one of the 
present congregations, or for a new one, has not transpired." 
The foundation was laid in Aug. 1844, and is expected to be 
enclosed before the approaching winter. It is by far the 
largest edifice in the city, being 145 feet long, (including the 
tower of 27 feet,) and 80 wide. Besides this a vestry and 
lecture room attached to the rear, make the whole structure 
170 feet in length. 

Presbyterian Churches. 

1. The First Presbyterian Church, of Brooklyn, was or- 
ganized with 10 members, by the Presbytery of New-York, 
March 10th, 1822. The church edifice was erected of brick, 
in Cranberry street, the same year, and afterwards enlarged. 
Its present dimensions are 85 by 55 feet ; the cost was about 
$15, COO. A lecture-room was subsequently erected at a cost 
of $7,00 0. 

The Rev. Joseph Sanford was ordained Oct. 22d, 1822, 
the first pastor. He was dismissed Jan. llth, 1829, and re- 
moved to Philadelphia, where he shortly after died. 

The Rev. Daniel L. Carroll, D.D., the second pastor, was 
instilled March 18th, 1829, and was dismissed July 9th, 
1885. 

The church remained vacant nearly 2 years, during which 
time, the Rev. John C. Backus, Jonathan Brace, and Jona- 
than D. Condit, were successively called, but declined. 

The Rev. Samuel H. Cox, D.D., the third and present 
pastor, was installed May 8th, 1837. 

In Nov. 1838, immediately after the division of the Synod 
of New-York, a corresponding division took place in this 
church. About 40 families, including 3 elders, and about 100 
members declared their continued adherence to the Presby- 
tery of New York, which remained attached to the (O. S.) 
Synod and General Assembly ; and therefore claimed to be 
" the First Presbyterian Church of Brooklyn ;" while the pas- 
tor, 7 elders, and about 550 members acknowledged the juris- 
diction of the " Presbytery of Brooklyn," which had been 
erected by the (N.S.) Synod in 1838. 



SECT. 22.] BROOKLYN. 389 

2. The minority retired, and maintained public worship in 
the " Court Room," for about a year; when after various in- 
effectual efforts, to secure an amicable division of the pro- 
perty, they resolved on erecting a new edifice, the corner- 
stone of which was laid, Sept. 3rd, 1339. The building 
stands on the corner of Fulton and Pine-apple street ; its di- 
mensions are 85 by 65 feet ; is in the Gothic style of archi- 
tecture, and cost $40,000, including the ground. It was de- 
dicated in 1840. 

The Rev. Melancton TV. Jacobus was ordained pastor, in 
1839, and remains in the charge. 

3. The Second Presbyterian Church was organized, by 
the Presbytery of New-Yoik, Oct. 25th, 1831, from a colony 
of the First Church, consisting of 31 members. They first 
erected a lecture-room on Adams' streefc near Nassau, which 
was opened, May 1st, 1832. In 1833-4, a church edifice, of 
brick, 103 feet by 75, was erected on Clinton street, near 
Fulton, at a cost of about $24,000, and $4,000 for ihe ground. 
It was dedicated May 4th, 1834. A lecture-room was subse- 
quently built on an adjoining lot, at a cost of $6,000, the for- 
mer having been disposed of for $8,000. 

The Rev. Ichabod S. Spencer, D.D., was installed pastor 
of this church, March 22nd, 1832, and still remains in charge. 

4. The Third Presbyterian Church originated in an effort 
to extend gospel privileges in the south-east part of the city. 
A sabbath-school was set up, in a building erected for that 
purpose, on Nassau street, opposite Stanton, in 1832 or '3. 
Subsequently, a prayer- meeting was held there, and in the 
spring of 183 1, a sabbath evening service was regularly main- 
tained. A church, consisting of 35 or 40 members, was or- 
ganized April 22d, 1834, and taken under the care of the 
Third Presbytery of New- York. In the autumn of that year, 
the Rev. Rollin S. Stone was installed pastor. He was dis- 
missed April 4th, 1837. About this time, the congregation re- 
moved to " Classical Hall," where they continued to worship 
some 2 years. 

In Aug. 1837, the Rev. William B. Lewis commenced 
labouring here, and was shortly after installed pastor, in which 
relation he still remains. 

In 1*39, the congregation erected an edifice 75 by 50 feet^ 
on Jay street, near High, at a cost of $15,000, including the 
ground. 



390 ANNAL9 OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

5. The Fifth Presbyterian Church, now existing, is an en- 
tirely distinct organization from one which had previously 
borne the fame name, and will be noticed hereafter. 

The Rev. George Dujfield, Junr. was ordained in Jan. 1841, 
in the church which had been built by Samuel A. Willoughby,, 
Esq., on the corner of Pearl, and Willoughby street, in 1839. 
A short time afterwards, a church of 20 members was or- 
ganized. The building is 70 by 40 feet, and cost $10,000. 

6. The South Presbyterian Church was organized Sept. 
18th, 1842, with 72 members, and the Rev. Samuel T. Spear 
was installed pastor, May 14th, 1843, by the Presbytery of 
Brooklyn. Their first place of worship was a School house 
on Pacific street, which they purchased and occupied till the 
present summer. The foundation of a beautiful edifice, laid 
in the autumn of 1844, was completed, and first opened 
for divine service, Aug. 24th, 1845. It stands on Clinton 
street, corner of Amity, and its dimensions are 60 by 115 feet, 
including a lecture-room in the rear. The whole cost about 
$28,000. 

7. The Wallabout Presbyterian Church was organized by 
the Presbytery of New York, Dec. 20, 1842, and consisted 
of 16 members, 9 of whom were dismissed from the Presby- 
terian church, under the Rev. Mr. Jacobus. Their first place 
of worship was the upper room of the " Academy" in Skill- 
man street, which they occupied for more than 2 years. 

The Rev. Jonathan Greenleaf, by whose indefatigable 
labours, this enterprise was commenced, was installed pastor, 
March 8th, 1843. In the latter part of 1844, a church 
edifice 65 by 50 feet y was commenced, on Franklin Av- 
enue, near Myrtle Avenue, which was completed, and de- 
dicated, March 27th, 1845. It is a neat building of wood, 
with a Lecture Room and other convenient apartments, in 
the basement, and the whole has been completed without en- 
cumbering the congregation with debt, at a cost of $5,000, 

A church organization has recently been made at the Na- 
val Hospital, by the Rev. Charles S. Stewart, the Chaplain ; 
but of how many members it consists, or on what platform it 
has been established, has not been ascertained. 

The Baptist Churches. 

1. The "First Baptist Church in Brooklyn" was incorpo- 
rated Oct. 15th, 1823. The church originally consisted of 



SECT. 22.] BROOKLYN. 391 

11 members, though the exact date of its organization has not 
been ascertained. Their first piace of worship was the Dis- 
trict School House, No. 1 : but measures were taken at an 
early period to erect a church edifice. A lot was purchased 
on Pearl-street, between Concord and Nassau, for $4,000, and 
a house, 00 by 40 feet, was erected, which the church occu- 
pied about 10 years. In 1834, a lot was purchased for $7,000 
on Nassau street, near Fulton, on which they erected, the same 
year, a brick edifice, 80 by 60 feet, at a cost of $17,000. 
The former lot and building were sold to an Episcopal con- 
gregation. 

The Rev. W. C. Hawley or Holly, the first pastor of this 
church, was ordained, shortly after its organization. He was 
succeeded by the Rev. Messrs. Lazell, Leljnd, Howard and 
Silas llsley — though the dates of their settlement and dis- 
mission have not been ascertained. It was during Mr. How. 
ard's ministry, that their present house of worship was erected. 

T ! ' lev. James L. Hodge, the present pastor, commenced 
his idoours here, in the autumn of 1841. 

2. The Pierpont Street Baptist Church was organized of 
40 members, in April 1810 ; when the Rev. E. E. L. Taylor, 
who ha i commenced the enterprise, the year before, became 
the pastor, in which relation he continues. 

The corner stone of a Gothic edifice, 77 by 60 feet, was 
laid July 20th, 1843, on Pierpont street, corner of Clinton, 
which was finished the following year, at a cost of more than 
$14,000, besides the lot which cost $5,000. 

3. The South Baptist Church was organized in April 1845, 
with 70 members, principally from the First Baptist Church. 
A small building for a Lecture Room has been erected on 
Livingston street. This church does not yet enjoy the la- 
bour of a settled pastor. 

Congregational Churches. 

The first Congregational or Independent church in this 
town was organized in 1785, which has long since ceased to be. 

A second organization in 18^8, under the style Congrega- 
tional, having shortly after adopted another platform, will be 
noticed hereafter. 

1. The " Church of the Pilgrims" was organized by a Con- 
gregational council assembled Dec. 22nd. 1814, consisting of 
about 60 members, a large number of whom were dismissed 
from the Presbyterian churches of this city. It appears to 



392 ANNALS OP THE TOWNS. [p A RT 2, 

have originated in a very natural desire on the part of the 
emigrants or descendants of New England to enjoy the insti- 
tutions of the gospel, according to the mode practised by their 
pious ancestry. 

The incorporation bears date Dec. 24th, 1844. The con- 
gregation have erected a stone edifice, on Henry street, cor- 
ner of Remsen, 80 by 100 feet, including a lecture-room in 
the rear, at a cost of about $50,000, and is nearly completed. 
The church does not yet enjoy the labours of a settled pastor. 

2. The Free Congregational Church was constituted June 
16th, 1S45, by a vote of the Free Presbyterian Church wor- 
shipping on the corner of Tillary and Lawrence street, by 
which they resolved to change their platform. 

In the month of September they gave a call to the Rev. 
Isaac N. Sprague of Hartford, Ct. to become their pastor, 
which, it is understood, he has accepted. 

The Methodist Episcopal Churches. 

1. The First Meth. Epis. Society in Brooklvn was incorpo- 
rated May 19th, 1794. A class had probibly been formed 
some time before, as the itinerating preachers had offi ciated 
here, more or less, for several years. Their first ho:isc of wor- 
ship was erected on Sands' Street, about the time of the incor- 
poration. It was enlarged in 1810, and rebuilt in 1844. It is a 
substantial brick building, 80 by 60 feet, and cost $10,500. 

2. The York Street Church on the corner of York and Gold 
was erected in 1823. Its dimensions are 65 by 50 feet and 
its cost $5,000. y 

3. The Washington Street Churchy 80 by 60 feet, was 
erected in 1831, at a cost of $15,000, 

4. The Ebenezer Church was organized June 18th, 1837, 
when a class of 8 persons was formed at the Wallabout. 
Preaching was first held in a school-house. In 1841 a church 
edifice, 40 by 35 feet, was erected on Franklin Avenue, at a 
cost of about $2,000, besides $S00 for the ground. 

5. The Centenary Church owes its origin to the dissatisfac- 
tion of a large portion of the Washington Street congregation 
with the appointment of a preacher to that station in 1838. 
They remonstrated against the appointment, while the Con- 



SECT. 22.] BROOKLYN. 393 

ference were still in session, but without effect. The house 
of worship being under the control of the congregation, the 
people refused to receive the appointed preacher, and provided 
themselves with another. 

The preacher appointed by the bishop, and those who ad- 
hered to him withdrew, and maintained service, during the 
current year, at •* Classical Hall." 

In 1839 a new society was organized, and a church erected 
on Johnson Street, corner of Jay, 80 by 50 feet, for $S,000, 
which was finished and occupied in 1840. It received its 
name from the date of its commencement, that year being the 
centenary of methodism. 

6. South Brooklyn Church (at Gowanus, 18th street,) is still 
in its infancy. A small church edifice was erected in 1842. 
The incorporation was made Feb. 4th, 1844, under the style 
" Sixth M. E. Church of Brooklyn." The building is small, 
25 by 35 feet, and cost $700. 

7. The M. E. Church in Pacific street is of recent organi- 
zation. A certificate of incorporation with the above title, 
was recorded Oct. 28th, 1844 ; but under an apprehension of 
some mistake, was renewed Jan. 29th, 1845. The society at 
present occupy a small building on Pacific street near Court. 
Although it does not appear in the reports of the last Confer- 
ence, a preacher was appointed to this station for the current 
year. 

8. In the course of the past summer (1845) a small building 
has been erected on Carleton Avenue, near Myrtle Avenue ; 
and preaching has been commenced and is continued there, 
by several local preachers ; but as yet no ecclesiastical organi- 
zation has been made. A certificate of incorporation of the 
** Eighth M. E. Church of Brooklyn" was recorded in the 
Clerk's office, Feb. 24th, 1845, and is presumed to be this 
congregation, as no other is known to which it can apply. 

The Bethel Church is an ecclesiastical organization which 
had its origin in a laudable desire to provide the regular 
means of grace for seamen, and the floating population along 
the East River. Accordingly, about the year 1842, a society 
was formed under the name of " The Brooklyn Bethel So- 
ciety," for the attainment of the object. A large room was 
hired on Main street, near the Catharine st. Ferry, and pub- 

17* 



394 ANNALS OP THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

lie worship established there. After some time, Mr. William 
Burnet, a local preacher of the Methodist connexion, was en- 
gaged as a stated preacher, and has continued his labours 
very acceptably to the present time. . 

On the 15th of Jan. 1S44, the Rev. Dr. Cox of the Presby- 
terian, and the Rev. Mr. Sewall of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church, Washington street, met at the Bethel, and organized 
the " Bethel Church." It consisted originally of 22 members ; 
and at the present time, about 50, with 12 candidates for 
admission. 

Its articles of faith and order, we have not ascertained ; 
but it is presumed to be evangelical in its character, though it 
has no connexion with any of the various christian churches 
with which it is surrounded. But all regard it as a benevo- 
lent enterprise, which is worthy of their sympathies and 
prayers. 

The following churches, though bearing the name of Me. 
thodist, have no connexion with the regular M. E. Church, or 
with one another. 

1. The Primitive Methodist Church of Brooklyn was, at 
first, a branch of that in New York, and they commenced 
worship here on the 1st Sabbath in July, 1833. The meetings 
were first held in an orchard at the Wallabout, near what is 
now Clason Avenue. On the approach of cold weather, they 
assembled in a private house. The first organization con- 
sisted of 2 male and 8 female members. They were supplied 
by travelling preachers. In the fall of that year, they pur- 
chased a lot, in Graham street, on which they commenced the 
erection of a small house of worship. The whole cost was 
about $1,700, for a part of which, they mortgaged the house 
and lot. For a time, the congregation was enlarged, and the 
number of church members increased to about 40. But 
their payments not being regularly made, the premises were 
sold, in 1839, under foreclosure, for $750, in consequence of 
which the society lost all that they had previously paid, and 
were turned out of doors. 

Shortly after a division in the church took place, a part of 
the society becoming Protestant Methodists. The Primitive 
established their worship in a more compact part of the city, in 
a house previously occupied by the Third Presbyterian Church 
on Nassau street, near Stanton. In the beginning of 1843, 
they removed to "Classical Hall," and shortly after to a small 



SECT. 22. J BROOKLYN. 

building in High street. In 1844, they purchased a lot in 
Bridge street, between Tillary and Concord, where they have 
erected a small house, 25 by 28 feet, at a cost of $2,100, in- 
cluding the ground. The congregation consists of only 15 or 
20 families, and they have about 35 communicants. Their 
protracted (rials might excite general sympathy, but for the 
folly of multiplying ecclesiastical organizations, where there 
is no radical difference of sentiment. 

2. The Protestant Methodist Church will be the subject of 
subsequent notice. 

3. The (True) Wesleyan Methodist Church was organized 
in April, 1845, and consists of 30 members. It is in connex- 
ion with the organization formed at Utica, May 31st, 1843. 
This congregation holds worship, at present, in the Hall of an 
Academy on the corner of Atlantic and Henry street. 

Coloured Churches. 

1. The African M. E. Church is in High street. The 
date of its organization has not been ascertained, but it is one 
of the oldest and most flourishing of this denomination. The 
church now consists of 209 members. The Rev. Levi N, 
Hall, is the preacher in charge. 

2. Mount Zion African Protestant Methodist Church. In 
the early part of 1842, the Rev. William Harden, a coloured 
preacher, commenced preaching in Brooklyn. His hearers 
assembled temporarily, in a room provided in a Rope- walk, in 
in Nassau street near Jackson. The Rope-walk being burned 
down, they assembled for a time in private houses. A church 
of 15 members was organized June 18th, 1842. It now num- 
bers 36. The Society was incorporated under the above 
name June 4th, 1841, and they have procured a small build- 
ing in Navy street, near Sands, in which they continue to 
worship. Mr. Harden is still their stated preacher. 

3. The Asbury African Methodist Epis. Church in Brook- 
lyn was formed of 21 members, Dec. 29th, 1844, and was 
incorporated June 5th, 1845. They have purchased a lot on 
Navy street, near Tillary, for 8400, on which they have 
erected a building 40 by 24 feet, at a cost of $450. The 
Rev. Enoch C. Harrington is their minister. 

Roman Catholic Churches. 

St. James, on the corner of Jay and Chapel street, was in- 



396 ANNALS OFrTHE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

corporated Nov. 22nd, 1822. The building was finished in 
1826, but enlarged in 1845. The value of the building is 
estimated at $30,000, and the ground at $'.0,000. Its sue- 
cessive pastors have been the Rev. John Farman, appointed 
in 1824— the Rev. John Walsh, in 1830 and the Rev. Charles 
Smith, the present incumbent, in 1842. The number of com- 
municants about 4,100. 

St. Paul's on the corner of Court and Chapel street, orga- 
nized in 1836. The building which is 125 by 75 feet, was 
finished in 1838 at a value of $20,000— the ground $8,000. 
The first pastor, appointed in 1838, was succeeded in 1840 by 
the Rev. Nicolas WDonnell the present incumbent. Number 
of communicants, about 2,000. 

The Church of the Assumption commenced in 1831. Cost 
of ground, $3,000, and of the building $1,700. The Rev. 
Mr. Bacon was appointed pastor, in 1842. 

The church in Kent Avenue was purchased from the Pro- 
testant Methodists, the present year, and cost $1,200 — im- 
provements $000. The building is not yet dedicated. The 
Rev. Hugh Maguire is pastor. 

Friends, or Quakers. 

The families belonging to this denomination in Brooklyn, 
were connected, till of late years, with the two divisions of 
the Society in the city of New York. The "Orthodox" still 
retain that connexion, while the " HicLsites" have made an 
organization in Brooklyn. They commenced a meeting at 
the " Apprentices Library" in 1835. In the following year, 
they erected a Meeting House, on the corner of Henry and 
Clark street, about 50 by 40 feet, at a cost of $3,000 — the 
ground $5,000. The Meeting is regularly maintained, though 
their number is small. 

The First Unitarian Congregational Society under the 
name of the " Church of the Saviour," is a large edifice of 
free stone, erected in 1840 on the corner of Pierpont street, 
and Monroe place. 

The Rev. Frederick A. Farley has been the minister since 
the spring of 1842. 

The First Univcrsalist Society was incorporated Oct. 10th, 
1842. A house of worship was erected on the corner of Ful 
ton and Pine-apple street, w'^ich was opened June 22nd, 1843 



SECT. 22.] BROOKLYN. 397 

The Rev. Abel C. Thomas has been the minister, since the 
autumn of 1842. 

Defunct and Transformed Churches, 

It is a part of the history of the town, and may afford some 
lessons of instruction, to take a brief notice of the several 
ecclesiastical organizations, that have existed a longer or 
shorter time, and then been dissolved or exchanged the plat- 
form on which they were founded. 

1. As early as 1785, when this ground had been occupied ex- 
clusively by the Dutch Church, for a century and a quarter, an 
" Independent Ftleeting House" was erected, and a Congrega- 
tion regularly incorporated, with a pastor — an assistant — Trea- 
surer, Secretary, and a board of Trustees. The building stood 
on the old Episcopal Burying Ground in Fulton street. The 
congregation did not live long, as a large portion of the mem- 
bers went over to Episcopacy — the building soon passed into 
the hands of that denomination, and became their house of 
worship, till the erection of St. Ann's Church. And thus this 
congregation expired. This was the church of which the 
Rev. John Matlock was pastor, whose name is still remembered 
by some of the inhabitants. 

2. An Episcopal Church, with the name of St. PauVs, was 
M commenced in Sept. 1883, under the auspices of the Rev. 
Thomas Pine." After continuing service in a school room, 
about a year, a place of worship, just vacated by a Baptist 
church, was purchased. Mr. Pine was succeeded by the Rev. 
T. S. Brittan. The building was consecrated in June, 1834, 
the church having been previously " received into connexion." 

As the congregation depended entirely on voluntary contri- 
butions for its support, which proved insufficient to liquidate 
the debt incurred, after strenuous efforts to obtain relief, in 
1839 or '40, u the edifice was sold, and the church suspended 
or broken up." 

3. Trinity Church was organized in March, 1835. A stone 
edifice, 45 by 60 feet, was erected on Clinton Avenue. The 
Rev. D. V. M. Johnson, Dr. Coit, and Rev. Mr. Shimeall, 
successively officiated. In 1841, the parish having become 
embarrassed, public worship was suspended. In 1842, the 
church was re-organized under the name of St. Luke's, which 
still exists, and has been mentioned on a previous page. 

4. St. Peter's (coloured) Church was formed some years 
ago, but has been suspended for want of support. 

5. The Fourth Reformed Dutch Church was organized 



398 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

Nov. 11th, 1840. at the Wallabout. The Rev. John Knox, 
who had laboured some months in the place, was invited to 
take the pastoral charge, but declined. The Rev. William 
Cahoon, of Cooksackie, also declined a call. In April, 1841, 
the Rev. Peter S. Williamson accepted a call, and was in- 
stalled on the 2nd Sabbath in May. He was, however, dis- 
missed on the 17th of Oct. following. The congregation be* 
ing feeble, and enjoying only occasional supplies, the enter- 
prise was abandoned, and the church dissolved by the Classis, 
in 1844. 

6. The Fourth Presbyterian Church was organized at Go- 
wanus, by the Third Presbytery of New York, in Feb. 1-88. 
A House of worship was erected shortly after, and the Rev. 
Robert R. Kellogg was installed June 4th, 1839. by the Pres- 
bytery of Brooklyn. He was dismissed on the 17th of Dec. 
following, and the congregation being few, and oppressed with 
debt, the church was dissolved by the Presbytery, May 9th, 
1842 ; and subsequently, the building was purchased by the 
Third Dutch Church, as has been previously mentioned. 

7. The Fifth Presbyterian Church, which was first organ- 
ized in this city, was entirely distinct from that respectable and 
growing congregation, which now bears the same name, and has 
been previously recorded in the catalogue of existing churches. 
That, which is now the subject of notice, had its origin, in 
the schism produced in the infancy of the Central Dutch 
Church. Those members who were dissatisfied with the re- 
jection of Mr. Tappan, by the Classis, in 1838, immediately 
seceded and set up worship, in a School House in Henry street, 
near Pine-apple ; under the administration of Mr. T., and were, 
shortly afterwards, organized a " Congregational Church." 
In the course of a year, the building now occupied by the Fifth 
Pres. Church, was erected at the sole expense of Samuel A. 
Willoughby, Esq., and this church removed to that building, 
which was dedicated May 30th, 1839; Mr. T. still continuing 
their preacher. In the spring of that year, the church changed 
its order, and placed itself under the care of the Presbytery 
of Brooklyn, by the name of the " Fifth Presbyterian Church." 
In the minutes of the Triennial General Assembly of 1839, 
this church is reported as consisting of 30 members, and Mr. 
Tappan, pastor ; but the date of his installation or dismission 
has not been ascertained, though he left the church in the 
course of that year. Immediately afterwards, another pastor 
was called, as appears, from the following notice published 
in the L. I. Star, under date of Dec. 31st, 1839 :— 



SECT. 22.] BROOKLYN. 899 

45 Fifth Presbyterian Church, Brooklyn, IV. Y. This little 
church, gathered by the labours of the Rev. H. P. Tappan, 
after some serious trials connected with the withdrawment of 
his valuable ministrations among them, have, as we are happy 
to learn, called the Rev. Absalom Peters, D. D., with perfect 
unanimity, to become their pastor. Their prospects are there- 
fore encouraging ; and our city may rejoice, not only with 
the congregation, and the neighbourhood, but in the accession 
of Dr. Peters to the number of our citizens and our clergy." 

It is also added " Note. — The public, especially in this 
city, ought to know, that, as the neat and commodious edifice, 
in the south-eastern district of our city, corner of Pearl and 
Willoughby streets, in which the Fifth Presbyterian Church 
now worship, was built and owned, at first, by private muni- 
ficence, so it has been lately purchased, and is now owned by 
the Congregation.'' 

For some reason, which has not been ascertained, Dr. P. 
was not installed, though arrangements were made for that 
purpose ; and the church and congregation shortly after re- 
moved from the building above mentioned, to a school-room 
near the South Ferry, where Dr. Peters continued to preach. 
After a few weeks, information was given, that there would 
be no more preaching, in that place, until further notice. 
It is presumed, that the church was soon after disbanded. 

8. The Sixth Presbyterian Church was organized at the 
Wallabout, Jan. 26th, 1840, by a Committee of the Brooklyn 
Presbytery. It consisted of 10 members, to whom 8 more were 
soon after added. At a subsequent meeting for the election 
of a pastor, the vote was divided, but a majority being for the 
Rev. James Knox, he was called, but declined. He, how- 
ever, continued to labour here about 3 months. After his de- 
parture, the undertaking was abandoned, and whether the 
church was formally dissolved or not, it has become extinct. 

9. The Free Presbyterian Church was organized with 36 
members, March 22nd, 1841, and the Rev. Russel J. Judd 
installed pastor, the 1st of May following, by the Presbytery 
of Brooklyn. He was dismissed in the autumn of 1843. 

In the spring of 1844, the Rev. Edward Reed was in- 
stalled, and dismissed in about a year. 

Subsequently, this congregation purchased the edifice erect- 
ed by the Second Baptist Church on the corner of Tillary 
and Lawrence street, which stands on leased ground. 

In the spring of 1845, the church, having become vacant, 
unanimously agreed to change their order and become Con- 



400 ANNALS OP THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

gregational. It has been previously noticed among the ex- 
isting churches. 

10. The Second Baptist Church was organized about the 
year 1830, with 7 members. They first held worship in a 
school-house, on the corner of Henry and Pine-apple street, 
In 1834, a church edifice was erected on a leased lot, corner 
of Tillary and Lawrence street, at a cost of about $4,000. 
The Rev. Jacob Price, C. F. Frcy, John Bectham and Octa. 
vius Winslow successively laboured here ; but whether any 
of them were settled as pastors is not ascertained. In the 
autumn of 1838, this church was dissolved, and the building 
sold to the Free Presbyterian congregation. 

11. The Protestant Methodist Church originated in a 
schism, which took place among the primitive Methodists, in 
1839. The secession first assumed the style of '* Wesleyan 
Methodists," and hired the building that had been erected by 
the primitive society, and sold for the debt, with which it was 
encumbered. The preacher of the original society went with 
the secession. For a while the new organization appeared to 
prosper, and numbered nearly 100 members. They purchased 
a lot of ground on Kent street ; and in the autumn of 1840 
commenced the erection of a church, 30 by 40 feet, which 
was completed at a cost of about $2,000, and occupied in 
the spring of 1811. Difficulties subsequently arose, and the 
society being in debt, and unable to extricate themselves, early 
in the present year, the church was exposed to sale, and pur- 
chased by the Roman Catholics, who now occupy it. It is 
understood that the society is dissolved. 

12. The writer has been informed, that a Unitarian society 
was collected in this city, previously to that which now ex- 
ists ; but, of its organization and dissolution no particulars 
have been ascertained. 

In reviewing this list of churches, the most of which have 
been formed and become defunct in the last 12 or 15 years, 
t will be seen that in general, they have arisen and fallen, on 
th e principle which is becoming quite too popular in ecclesias- 
tical, as well as in secular concerns, of running into debt. 
This has evidently been the great root of the evil. 

From the great facility of obtaining money on loan, a little 
handful of sanguine people, flattered with the idea of becom- 
ing the founders of a new congregation of their oicn, cut loose 
from the churches, with which they are connected, and which, 
in many instances, are neither too strong nor yet overflowing. 



SECT. 22.] BROOKLYN. 401 

By their own subscriptions, which are frequently so large as 
to embarrass themselves, and perhaps with the aid of particu- 
lar friends, they raise money enough to purchase a lot of 
ground ; and then a host of money-lenders are ready to loan 
enough to rear the building, with the safe security, of a mort- 
gage on the house and grounds, provided the building is kept 
covered by insurance. But here an additional evil is often 
permitted to enter. Instead of a plain, but neat edifice, of 
sufficient dimensions to accommodate the infant congregation, 
and meet its reasonable expectations, for many years, which 
might, when necessary, be sold, for its real value, to some 
other new society, the views and feeling of both borrowers and 
lenders, demand that it shall be a spacious building, finished 
both externally and internally in a style that will command 
notice, and attract occupants. And here lies a capital er- 
ror of this popular scheme. The fact is entirely overlooked, 
that those persons, who are to be most relied on, to promote 
the highest interests of a church, and build up the spiritual 
temple, are not usually those who are, allured to the house of 
God, by the beauties of architecture, the splendour of ceilings 
and cornices, or the softness of cushions. And it should be 
recollected that even those who deem these accommodations 
desirable or essential, are very slow to cast in their lot, with a 
small congregation, who are known to be in debt, for all these 
comfortable appendages. 

But there is another prominent point from which it is well 
to take a view of such an enterprise. An infant congrega- 
tion generally find themselves sufficiently burdened to raise an 
adequate support for divine institutions, during the first few 
years. What then must that burden be, when you add to it, 
the interest of from 10, to $20,000, from year to year ? Is it 
any wonder, t ha many a congregation soon sinks under the 
load ; and those that survive, groan under the weight, till an- 
other generation, provoked at the injustice of their predeces- 
sors, in imposing upon them such a tax ; in resentment, rather 
than with a good will, put their hands into their pockets, and 
wipe offthe disgraceful debt, or what is more common, aban- 
don the whole concern to the hammer.* 

* Actual injustice to the mechanics and labourers sometimes results from 
this pernicious practice. The writer is informed of an instance, (not on 
Long Island,) in which a church, built in the most costly style, was mort- 
gaged for less than half its cost, for money to finish it ; which was sold 
under a foreclosure as soon as it was completed, and purchased for the con. 
gregation in another name, for little more than the mortgage, while many 



402 ANNALS OF THE TOWNS. [PART 2, 

" In dropping the thread of simple narration, as he approaches 
the close of his undertaking, the writer feels as if he ought to 
ask pardon of the good people of Brooklyn for adopting a 
strain of didactic remark, that might seem designed for their 
peculiar instruction. But the present strictures have no ex- 
clusive bearing on this city. And as the design of the whole 
work has been to review the past for the benefit of those who 
are now, or may hereafter come upon the stage, and as this 
community furnishes some important facts that illustrate gene- 
ral principles, which are of universal application and use, he 
feels constrained to continue his remarks a little further. 

The evil which has been referred to, is not confined to those 
churches and congregations that have become extinct. There 
are not a k\v of those now existing, and generally considered 
in a flourishing condition, which are groaning in secret, if not 
actually withering, under the burden of a heavy debt. The 
writer has been kindly furnished with a statement of the 
amount of debt now resting on most of the churches of this 
city ; and he was advised by some of the ministers to publish 
the facts, in connection with each congregation ; probably 
with the hope that the exposure might excite the people to 
exscind the wasting cancer. But he felt that this would be 
improper. He may, however, be allowed to say, that, in the 
list now lying before him, there are eight churches whose 
several debts vary from $5,000 to $18,000, and in the aggre- 
gate, amount to $84,000. Such a burden cannot fail to 
operate as an incubus, on both minister and people, and greatly 
impair their energies in building up the cause of the Redeemer. 
And though the load may be sustained from year to year, by 
putting an increased price upon the "sittings," yet it should 
be recollected, that this very remedy, in its practical operation, 
is driving the poor — even the pious poor — the Saviour's own 
legacy to his people, from the congregations. And, doubtless, 
our churches would have more of the spirit of primitive Chris- 
tianity, if it could be said now, with as much propriety as in 
those early days, "The poor have the gospel preached to 
them." Among them, we ordinarily find more ardent piety, 
and more self-denying effort for the spiritual interests of the 
Church. But they do not ask to enjoy the privileges of the 

of the mechanics, who did the work, were left without their pay. Will 
such proceedings meet the smiles of a righteous God ? Can a congregation 
flourish, while such an act of injustice remains unrepaired ? Religious or- 
ganizations, at least, ought to have consciences, even if it be true that other 
44 corporations have no souls." 



SECT. 22.] BROOKLYN. 403 

gospel for nothing. All they require, is, to have the ordinary- 
accommodations of our churches brought within the reach of 
their limited means. .The church that is not in debt can 
readily do this. 

But human nature is always prone to extremes, and there 
is often danger of fulling upon Scylla in avoiding Charybdis. 
And here it is obvious there is an opposite extreme. While 
there are some, who are fond of multiplying religious organi- 
zations and building churches, far beyond the necessities of a 
community, (and this is an extensive evil in many parts of 
Long Island,) there are more who are disposed to keep a large 
and overgrown congregation together, even after they have 
not room to sit or stand. In most of our cities there are 
churches, whose number of communicants, reported from year 
to year, is greater than the average number of attendants on 
public worship ; and if they were ever actually assembled to- 
gether, would more than fill the seats on the floor of the church. 
Now it is evident, that these lists must contain a large num- 
ber of non-residents, (the watch and care of whom rests on 
nobody,) besides the usual proportion of aged and infirm per- 
sons ; or else the members of such churches must be exceed- 
ingly remiss even in attending public worship. If none but 
they were present, the church would always be full. — But 
when a church has become thus overgrown, that a single 
pastor cannot keep himself advised, by personal intercourse 
and observation, of the spiritual condition of every member, 
such a church imperiously requires the labours of an additional 
pastor, or a separation into two churches. The principle 
of colonizing, properly conducted, is the true mode of forming 
new churches, especially in cities. And this should be done, 
not on the mere principle of personal convenience or family 
gratification, but with a pure and self-denying disposition to 
enlarge the Redeemer's kingdom. 

There are strong inducements in a large and wealthy con- 
gration to defer this arrangement too long. It may be painful 
to sunder sacred associations that have been pleasantly and 
profitably maintained so long. But these are not to be named 
among those, who have professed a readiness " to leave father 
and mother, wife and children, brethren and sisters for the 
kingdom of God's sake." It will require, at least for a time, 
enlarged pecuniary contributions ; but these will be cheerfully 
made, by all those who regard the silver and the gold in their 
hands as the Lord's. Besides, while they remain with such a 
multitude, they are not doing as much for the cause of religion 



404 CONCLUSION. 

as their Master expects and requires. And what ought to 
weigh more than all, congregations, like individuals, have 
their period of infancy, vigorous manhood, and feeble age ; 
and like the hive that never swarms, they are liable to be 
filled with drones, who feel not the necessity of labour: or 
decrepid age, that has lost all its energies. Instances may be 
found of old congregations, that have neglected the favoured 
moment to send forth a young and active colony, on ground 
that has been soon seized and occupied by rival organizations, 
which are, at this moment, smaller in numbers and feebler in 
strength than they were 25 or 30 years ago. Therefore while 
guarding against the needless multiplication of churches, it is 
important, in every growing city and village, for existing con- 
gregations to consult, not merely their individual prosperity, 
but the demands of the increasing population. And it will be 
found that those denominations that have acted most judi- 
ciously on the colonization principle, have made the greatest 
and most abiding progress. 

Summary. — The city of Brooklyn contains 46 organized 
religious societies, the most of which have houses of worship ; 
viz., 3 Reformed Dutch — S Episcopal — 7 Presbyterian — 3 
Baptist — 2 Congregational — 8 Episcopal Methodists— 3 other 
Methodists — 3 Coloured Methodists — 4 Roman Catholics — 1 
Friends — 1 Unitarian — 1 Universalist, and 2 without denomi- 
national distinction. Besides these, there are 2 or 3 others, 
which are at present in a forming state, but have not as yet 
been regularly organized. 



CONCLUSION. 

In reviewing this very imperfect sketch of the annals of 
Long Island, which have been traced with particular reference 
to the religious privileges enjoyed by successive generations, 
through a period of more than 200 years, there are many 
topics which suggest important lessons of instruction, and 
which it would be profitable to bring before the mind of the 
reader. But onl^ two or three suggestions can be made. 

It is obvious to remind the inhabitants of this extended isle 
that their lot has been cast, if not in a land literally " flowing 
with milk and honey," yet in a region highly distinguished, 



CONCLUSION. 405 

from the first day of its settlement by a civilized people, by 
gospel privileges. It is a most grateful reflection, that the 
very first Sabbath after the first colony was planted on the 
eastern extremity, was cheered by the sound of the blessed 
gospel proclaimed by a duly authorized minister, to a Christian 
assembly, regularly united in covenant, and constituted a 
church of Jesus Christ. And that there, in the course of a 
few months, stood the first temple that was ever erected to the 
God of Heaven, within the wide territory of what is now 
called the " Empire State." And from that day to this, 
churches have been multiplied, till they are now found in al- 
most every little neighbourhood from shore to shore, to the 
number of 2 1 3. And though it is obvious, that in some towns, 
the rage for building houses of worship, and organizing dis- 
tinct congregations, has been carried to an extent that has in- 
jured rather than advanced the cause of religion, by dividing 
the strength of the population beyond their ability to sustain 
divine institutions ; yet it must be confessed, that in regard 
to the privileges of the gospel, the people of this island are a 
highly favoured people. There is at the present hour, on an 
average, a place of worship for every assembly of 677 indi- 
viduals that might be convened. 

Nor are these, to any great extent, silent temples, or those 
that send forth the cry of " peace, where there is no peace." 
In the most of them, the voice of prayer and praise, and of 
faithful instruction is heard every Sabbath day ; and " whoso- 
ever will may come," and learn the way to heaven. Besides 
this. Long Island has been blessed, from the time of its settle- 
ment, with a succession of able, pious, and faithful ministers, 
some of whom, in a less retired situation, would have been ex- 
tensively admired and celebrated. But here unknown, and 
undiverted from their great work, they have spent their lives 
in trying to save souls. It is believed, that in very few, if in 
any district of this country, of equal extent, there is a more 
general knowledge of the only way of life and salvation, than 
in the greater part of this isle of the sea. On this point, the 
writer speaks from some personal knowledge. More than 30 
years ogo, he made two voluntary tours of a fortnight each, 
preaching one or more times every day, and visiting from 
house to house, in the most retired situations, where no assem- 
bly could be collected, and he did not find a single individual 
of adult years, who appeared to be ignorant of the great plan of 
salvation. And, in both instances, he returned under the deep 
conviction, that if any one perished from this highly favoured 



408 coxclusios. 

region, it would be most emphatically true, that "his blood 
would be on his own head." There is reason to apprehend, 
that this is equally true at the present time. 

In this connexion, the writer is led to a renewed expression 
of regret in failing to execute one part of his original plan. 
It was his design, as stated in the preface, to have given a 
brief outline of every clergyman, who has laboured for any 
length of time on the island, and has gone to his account. 
But sufficient has been done on this head to secure the practi- 
cal benefit intended to be accomplished. 

Will the ministers of the gospel, then, who are now occupy- 
ing these heights of Zion, in these favoured churches, permit 
one who is a simple elder, without assuming the attitude of 
their teacher, to call the attention of those who are also elders, 
to one obvious fact 1 

In tracing the history of different congregations, or of the 
same congregation at different j.eriods, it is remarkable to ob- 
serve, how every minister, who has spent much time in a 
place, has left the impress of his own image enstamped on 
the community. This is observable in almost any part of the 
country, but there are some obvious reasons which will sug- 
gest themselves to every reflecting mind, why this fact should 
be more conspicuous, in this isolated situation. The converse 
of the maxim which the Lord applied to Israel, is here most 
remarkably illustrated, " Like priest, like people." In almost 
any congregation, where a minister has had the opportunity of 
moulding the character of the people for a number of years, it 
is easy to trace the influence, and even to discern the features 
of his own character in the aspect of the community, long 
after he has been laid in the grave. In fact, there are not 
only individuals, but congregations on Long Island, that at 
this day, exhibit the peculiar characteristics of the ministers 
that laboured on that ground more than 100 years ago. And 
as noxious weeds always more readily take root, and grow 
with greater luxuriance in this fallen world, than the most 
precious grain, it is not wonderful that the influence of erro- 
neous, erratic, and even indolent ministers, should be more 
effective and abiding, than of the most circumspect and devoted 
servants of the cross. Still the influence of faithful men, un- 
der however unfavourable circumstances it may be exerted, 
is not lost, but will long survive, when they are dead and 
gone. 

This consideration is well adapted to impress the mind of 
every minister of the gospel, with a deep sense of the awful 



CONCLUSION. 



407 



responsibility under which he is daily acting. He is not only 
living for eternity, as it respects his own individual recom- 
pense, but he is constantly fitting the people of his charge for 
the awards of the final judgment. And not only those now 
living, and especially the children and youth who are growing 
up under his nurturing hand, and forming their characters 
from his instructions and example, but generations yet unborn 
are to be trained and moulded by those, whom he is forming 
to become faithful or unfaithful parents, to those who shall 
come after them. 

In reviewing his own imperfect ministry of 40 years, the 
writer is deeply conscious that he has nothing to boast of, but 
much to be humbled for ; yet a deep sense of his own imper- 
fections and shortcomings ought not to deter him from exhort- 
ing and entreating his brethren, with his own soul, to greater 
circumspection and fidelity in their high and holy calling, re- 
membering that " they watch for souls, as they that must give 
account," and that, when they are "dead, they will yet 
speak" for the weal or wo of those that shall come after them. 
" Be thou faithful unto death," says the great Head of the 
church to his servants, " and I will give thee a crown of life." 

And though the writer cannot claim it as a right, he would 
embrace this opportunity as a privilege, to speak a word of 
advice to the churches of the Island, to which his earliest 
attachments were formed, in ail the ardour of a " first love," 
and which was strengthened and cemented by one of the most 
glorious seasons of grace, that it has been his privilege ever to 
enjoy. And now, after having been an exile from his native 
isle for more than 30 years, he is permitted, in the good pro- 
vidence of God, to return again, to lay his dying head on its 
bosom ; — now, when the ardour of youth has long since sub- 
sided, and the frost of 60 winters has chilled the vital current, 
and passion has settled down into a calm and genial glow, 
he still feels it to be a privilege to renew the recollection of 
years gone by, and recall those happiest days and brightest 
scenes of a checkered pilgrimage. And though the ground is 
now occupied, and the churches are composed of almost an 
entirely new generation, and only a single watchman who 
stood on these walls at that time, now stands trembling with 
age, just ready to depart, he still loves these churches for 
their fathers' sake. 

With these facts in view, the present ministers and churches 
of Long Island will pardon the presumption of calling their 
serious attention to one more point, deeply involving the sue- 



408 CONCLUSION. 

cession of the church. The great duty of parental instruction 
and discipline is God's own ordinance, for the formation of 
the character of each successive generation, and the preserva- 
tion of religion in the world." " These tvords which I com- 
mand thee this day shall be in thine heart; and thou shalt teach 
them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when 
thou sittest in thine house, and when thou wall est by the ivay, 
and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. And 
thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand ; and they 
shall be as frontlets between thine eyes. And thou shalt 
write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates." 
Deut. vi. 6-9. 

The Sabbath School is a noble and excellent institution, in 
its original design, intended for the benefit of those who en- 
joyed no means of instruction at home : and there will un- 
doubtedly be countless throngs in glory, who will bless the 
name of Robert Raikes, for this benovolent scheme. But 
be it remembered, that this is a human institution, while God's 
own ordinance remains and will remain, to the end of time, 
unrepealed. And it is worthy of remark, that there is no 
good institution, whether of human or divine invention, that 
the depravity of man, or the mere love of ease has not pros- 
tituted and perverted. And this has been most manifestly 
the case, with the sabbath-school. Parents, even christian 
parents, have found it so much easier to turn over their chil- 
dren to the S. S. teacher, than to discharge in person, the ar- 
duous duties which God has imposed upon them, that the in- 
structions of the domestic circle are almost entirely laid aside, 
and a thousand encomiums are lavished upon an invention, 
which they regard as exonerating them from the irksome dis- 
charge of parental duty, and which they expect will lead their 
children to heaven, without any personal effort on their part. 
But parental duty cannot be discharged by -proxy ; and there 
is no possible substitute for parental love. The faithful sab- 
bath school teacher, however interested in his beloved charge, 
cannot feel those yearnings of soul, that the pious parent feels, 
for his own child. To profess it, is conclusive evidence of 
consummate ignorance of a parent's love. God knew all 
this, and therefore he laid hold of this principle, and sancti- 
fied it as a principal means of perpetuating religion from gene- 
ration to generation. 

Ye Sons of the Puritans — Descendants of the Huguenots, 
and of the pious Dutch, (the men that fled their native coun- 
try, and took up their residence in a trackless wilderness, for 



CONCLUSION. 409 

the rights of conscience and the enjoyment of liberty ;) it is 
right and proper to remind you of your noble ancestry : and 
duty demands the plain and faithful declaration, that you 
have greatly declined from the good old ways of your pious 
fathers, especially in regard to parental duly. We live in an 
age of refined taste and exquisite "sentimentality." The 
time-honoured standards of our ancestors have become too 
old and dry for our dyspeptic stomachs, at the present day. 
The precious catechisms of our several communions, though 
differing in form and order, yet essentially the same, in the ex- 
hibition of the great doctrines of the Reformation, and which 
our ancestors taught, with untiring diligence to their children, 
are actually crowded into the back ground, if not entirely 
out of sight, by countless volumes, adapted to the more fas- 
tidious taste of the times, and " illustrated" by the inventions 
of fancy and the refinement of the arts ; till the Bible itself 
has been made a great picture-book, and its Divine Author 
exhibited, contrary to his own express prohibition, if not in 
the bulk of a molten image, with the actual members of a 
human form. And all this to gratify and keep pace with the 
improving taste of this picture-book age. Nor is this all. 
Even the prophecies of the sacred volume, which the great 
minds of the protestant reformers failed to unfold, for the very 
obvious reason, that they were not designed 1o be fully un- 
derstood, till the providence of God should disclose their mys- 
teries, are now professedly made plain to the eye, by the pro- 
gress of the arts : and even the ordinances of religion are 
claimed to be illustrated and confirmed by the same happy 
means.* 

The day once was, and its light beamed brightly from 
Gravesend to Montauk and Oysterpond Point, when the Bible 
and the Catechism were the text books of the common-school, 
and the familiar companions of every domestic fireside. Then 

* The writer is fully aware, that he has here fallen on an unpopular 
theme, and that this undisguised expression of opinion will he ridiculed by 
some, and regarded by more, as resulting from a want of taste. But he 
is conscientious in the sentiment he has so distinctly expressed, and em- 
braces this opportunity to enter his dissent from the general sentiment and 
tendencies of the age. And he is constrained to go one step further, and 
say, he verily believes, that the influence of book-makers, sustained as it is 
by the church and the world, is doing more to familiarize and prepare the 
minds of the rising generation to receive with favour, all the imagery 
and mummery of a corrupt system of religion, that is making extended 
and rapid progress in our land, than all the sermons, and speeches and 
writings of their fathers will or can counteract. 

18 



410 CONCLUSION. 

too, a goodly portion of every sabbath day was devoted to the 
recital, explanation and practical enforcement of those excel- 
lent forms of sound words. But now, the Holy Scriptures 
are not only left out of, but actually prohibited from some 
schools, and what is still more to be lamented, parental in- 
struction is extensively expected to be discharged by deputies. 

It is surely high time for the church to awake to this sub- 
ject. Every great reformation, that has ever blessed the 
world, has been brought about, by the " turning of the heart 
of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to 
their fathers ;" and this characteristic will mark the approach 
of brighter and better days. The writer has no wish to have the 
Sabbath-school abandoned, or that exertions should be withheld 
to extend its benign influence over the vast multitudes, who 
would otherwise grow up in ignorance of God and divine 
things. But he does insist, that the church is suffering — the 
cause of truth is declining, for the want of a revival of fam- 
ily religion — parental fidelity and systematic instruction. 
The spirit of the age, in which there is much to commend, 
and by which much good is effected, is in a literal sense, a 
public spirit. Its field is the world ; its operations are neces- 
sarily transacted before the public eye ; its cry is on the house- 
top ; and the deep impression rests on the public mind, that 
nothing can be effected in a private way. Now, what we 
want, is not the abandonment of these great and powerful 
schemes of operation ; but the cultivation of a spirit of hum- 
ble, unostentatious piety, in the closet and at the domestic al- 
tar. This is God's own institution, not the invention of wise 
and good men, and is calculated to give life and vigour to 
every public measure to extend the gospel through the world. 
A new and powerful impulse would be given to all our benevo- 
lent enterprises, if we could only succeed in awakening and 
securing the general attention of our churches, to the long neg~ 
lected duties of the family circle. In the faithful discharge 
of these, many a child would catch the missionary spirit, and 
many a parent would be prepared to give up a beloved son, to 
carry the glad tidings of salvation to the perishing heathen. 
" O ! Lord, revive thy work." 

Inhabitants of Long Island ! remember your high descent, 
and emulate the example of your pious ancestors. 



APPENDIX 



No I. — A Statistical View of the Churches of all 
the Principal Religious Denominations on Long 
Island. 

Congregational Churches. 

The following schedule contains the names of all the 
churches, that claim this denomination ; whether belonging 
to the Consociation, the late Convention, or, occupying 
strictly independent ground. 

N. B. Those ministers, whose names are included in pa- 
renthesis, are not known to be stated supplies to the churches, 
to which their names are annexed, but labour more or less in 
different congregations. A few variations from the abstract 
given on pages 125-30, result from subsequent information. 

Those marked with an asterisk (*) are Presbyterian minis- 
ters. — P. stands for pastor. — S.S. for stated supply. 



Chut ches 




Ministers. 


Mcmbs. 


Orient, 




*Daniel Beers, S.S. - 


73 


Green port, . 






15 


Cutchogue, . 


. 


*Ezra Youngs, S.S. 


68 


Northville, . 




(Azcl Downs,) 


85 


Upper Aquebogue, 


including 






Flanders, 


' 


Thomas Harris, 


250 


Riverhead, . 


• 


Brooks, 


72 


Bating Hollow, . 


, 


(David Benjamin,) . 


52 


Wading River, . 
Old Man's, . 






150 




Prince Hawes, S.S. 


140 


New Village, 


. 


(Erastus Wells,) 


55 


Patchogue, . 


. 


*John II Thomas, S.S. . 


204 


Bcllport, 




*George Tomlinson, S.S. 


37 


Fireplace Neck, . 


. . 


(Nathaniel Hawkins,) 


11 


Moriches, 


. 


(Christopher Youngs,) 


It 


Poosepatuck, 


. 




17 


Canoe Place, (Shinnecock) . 


William Benjamin, P. . 


70 


Warnertown, (Canoe Place) 


( Lord,) 


12 


Ch. of the Pilgrims, 


Brookyn, 




100 


Free Church, 


«t 


Isaac N. Sprague, P. elect. 


150 


Williamsburgh, . 


20 


Simeon S. Jocelyn, P. 


17 


Total, . 


12 


1589 



412 



APPENDIX* 



Presbyterian Church. 



The Presbytery of Long Island, [O.S.] 

N. B. Those marked with an asterisk are not members of 
this Presbytery. 



Churches. 


Ministers. 
>amuel R Ely, S.S. 


iMc/nbs. 


Easthampton, 


435 


Sag Harbour, 








lost ph A. Copp, P. . 


360 


Bridgchampton, 








Vacant, .... 


177 


Southampton, 








3ugh N. Wilson, P. 


267 


Wcpthampton, 








■iylvcbter Woodbridgc, S.S. 


75 


Brookfidd, . 








Vacant, .... 


25 


Moriches, . 








Thomas Owen, S.S- 


49 


Southaven, . 








George Tomlmson, S.S. . 


37 


Middletown, 








:nnts S. Evans, P. 


128 


Setaukct, 








i Zrchariah Green, ) Collegial 
' John Gile, jun. S Pastors 


c 81 












Smithtown, . 








lames C. Edwards, P. 


81 


Freshpond, . 








Ebenezer Piatt, S.S. 


149 


Huntington, 








fames McDougaH, P. 


237 


Sweet Hollow, 








Chester Long. S.S. . 


118 


Babylon, 








Alfred Ketcham. S.S. . 


170 


Hempstead, . 








Sylvester YVoodbric.'ge, jun. 


220 


Oysterbay, . 








/acant, . 


11 


Without charge, . 








3zra King, 




Total, . 






V, 




14 2620 



Belonging to the Presbytery of New. York, [O.S.] 



Churches. 


Ministers. 


Memba. 


First Church, Brooklyn, 


Melancton M Jacobus, P. 


311 


Second *' •* 


Ichabod S. Spencer, D.D., P. '. 


481 


Wallabout, " 


Jonathan Green leaf, P. 


1(16 


Jamaica 


James Macdonald, P. 


404 


Newtown, .... 


John Goldsmith, P. . 


142 


Williamsburg}), . 


P. Eugene Stevenson, P. 


42 


Without charge, . 


Nathaniel S Prime, 







TotaL 



1489 



APPENDIX. 



413 



The Presbytery of Long Island, (N.S.) 



Miiusiers. 



Union Parish, 
Franklinville, 
Southold, . 
Greenport, . 
Shelter Island, 

Supplying Cong. Churches, 
Without charge, . 



Benjamin Luce, S.S. 

Henry Clark, S.S. . 

George F. VViswell, P. 

John Woodbridge, P.t 

Anson Sheldon, S.S. 

( Daniel Beers, 

\ Ezra Youngs, 
Jonathan Huntting, 
John D. Gardiner, 



Membs. 



98 

65 

134 

108 

66 



Total, . 5| 9 471 

t Mr. Woodbridge was ordained Nov. 6th, 1845, after the former part of 
this work went to press. 

Belonging to the Presbytery of Brooklyn, (N.S.) 



Churches. 


Ministers. 


Membi. 


First Church, Brooklyn, 
Third »« ■* . 
Fifth " " . 
South " " 
Williamsburgh, . 

Supplying other churches, . 

Without charge, . 


Samuel H. Cox, D.D., P. 
William B Lewis, P. 
George Duffield,jun., P. . 
Samuel T. Spear, P. 
James VV. McLane, P. . 

S John H. Thomas, S.S. 

1 Alfred Kctcham, S S. —-„.,_ 
Names not ascertained, 


840 
400 
150 
250 
68 


Total, . . i 


7 


1708 



Total on the island, 33 Churches — 37 Ministers — 6288 Communicants. 

Reformed Dutch Church. 
South Classis of Long Island. 



Congregations. 



Ministers. 



1st Church, Brooklyn, 

Central M 

3rd Church, 

Flatbush, 

Flatlands, 

New Lots, 

New Utrecht, . 

Gravesend, 

East New-York, 

Principal, Erasmus Hall, 

Under suspension, . 

Total, 



M. W. Dwight, D.D. 
J. Broadhead, D.D. 
S. M. Woodbridge, . 
T. M. Strong, D.D. 

J. A. Baldwin, 



K. O. Currie, . 
Abr. I. Labagh, 
W. V. Schoon maker, 
R. D. Van Kleck, 
Isaac P. Labagh, 



18* 



135 

135 

54 
9(. 
7( 
5(, 
8. : 
10( 
51 



776 



800 
;800 
(300 
jiii. 
450 
3>0 
475 
550 
300 



1475 



(200) 
222 

62 
133 
110 

75 
132 

92 

62 



1088 



414 



axtexdix. 



North 


Classis of Long Island. 








Congregations. 


Ministers. 


Fam 


Ind. 


Com 


Jamaica, 




]. Schoonmaker, D.D. 


200 


110(1 


195 


Newtown, 




L». I. Garrctson, 


93 


500 


125 


Oyster Bay, . 




r\ D. Oakey, . 


78 


350 


112 


N. Hempstead, 




f. H. Sheffield, 


63 


294 


49 


Williamsburgh, 




V. H. Van Dorcn, . 


100 


500 


129 


Astoria, . 




V. H. Bishop, . 


(i(i 


(350) 


55 


Flushing, 




.V. R. Gordon, . 


30 


(176) 


40 


Attached to 


N. Y. Classis. 








Bushwick, 




i. II. Meeker, 


80 
710 


370 
3640 


148 


8 


. t 


853 


Total, . 


7 


17 


1485 


8015 


1941 



Episcopal Church. 



Suffolk County. 


Towns. ] Rectors. 


Com. 


St. John's Church 


, Huntington, 


Charles H. Hall, . 


~26 


St. John's *• 


Islip, 


D. V. M Johnson, 


14 


Caroline " 


Setauket, . 


J. M. Noll, .... 


25 


Christ's 


Sag Harbour, 


H. F. Roberts, . 


12 




Patchoguc, 




T? 


Queen's County. 






St. George's Churc 


h, Astoria, . 


J. W. Brown, 


57 


St. James' *• 


Newtown, |Gr. Shehon, . 






49 


St. George's " 


Flushing, C. Burcker, . 






155 


Zion " 


Little Neck, | H. M. Beare, 






27 


Christ's M 


Manhasset, J.P.F. Clarke, . 






73 


St. Paul's 


Glen Cove, 1 " " 






J2 


Christ's " 


Qystcrbay, E. Harwood, 






10 


St. John's 


Cold Spring, 'j. Sherwood, 






18 


St. George's " 


Hempstead, 


O. Harriman, 






100 


Trinity " 


Ri>ckaway 


J C. Smith, 








Grace " 


Jamaica, 


VV. L. Johnson, . 






138 




3ysterbay South|(Not organized,) . 










1 


"639 


King's County. 






St. Ann's Church 


Brooklyn, 


B. C. Cutler, D.D. . 


380 


St. John's *• 


" 


E. M. Johnson, . 






143 


Calvary " 


it 


VV. H. Lewis. . 






301 


Christ's " 


ii 


J. S. Stone, D.D. . 






230 


St. Mary's •■ 


" 


J. Hunter, . 






47 


Emmanuel " 


" 


F. Vinton, . 






160 


St. Luke's •• 


|J. VV. Diller, 






61 


St. Thomas' " 


" J. F. Mcssinger, . 






28 


St. Marks' '» 


Williamsburgh. IS. M. Haskins, . 






120 


St. Paul's •• 


Flatbush, . VV. H.Newman, . 






30 


St. John's " 


Fort Hamilton. J. D. Carder, 






33 






7533 


Total, 


. . . 28 






24 


2249 



APPENDIX. 



415 



Methodist Episcopal Church. 
John S. Matthias, Presiding Elder. 



King's County. Stations. 


Preachers. 


Memba. 


— - 

Sand's street, Brooklyn, . 


S Hart F. Pease, 

\ John Tackaberry, . 


\ 


658 


York, •' 


Hue! Goodsell, . 




425 


Washington, " 


C W. Carpenter, 




2.-)0 


Centenary Ch , " 


John M. Pease, . 




451 


Ebcnczer, " 


Jacoh Shaw, 




80 


Pacific street, " 


Luther W. Peck, 






18th street and New Utrecht, . 


To be supplied, . 




5 50 
\ 153 


Gravescnd and Flatbush, 


L D. Nickerson, 




Williamsburgh, 


Paul R Brown, . 




318 


Bushwiek, .... 


Anson F. Beach, 




62 


Queen's County. 






2447 


Newtown, .... 


Edward L. Stout, 




216 
9-2 
226 
396 
296 
100 


Flushing. .... 


David Osborn, . 




N. Hempstead, 


Elbert Osborn, . 




Hempstead, .... 


Edwin E Griswold, . 




Rockaway, .... 


tfenry Hatfield, . 




Jamaica, .... 


George W. Collord, 




Suffolk County. 






1326 




( Tim. C. Youngs, 


: \ 




Huntington, .... 


< Oliver E. Brown, 
' Orlando Starr, 


406 






Huntington South, . 


S Edmund O. Bates, 
I Jon. N. Robinson, 


. \ 


425 


Smithtown, .... 


S Gcorjrc Hoi lis, 
} Marvin R. Lent, 


: \ 


603 


Patchoguc, .... 


David Holmes, . 




257 


Westhampton, 


( Nathan Rice, . 
) Isaac H. Lent, 


: \ 


232 


Southampton, 


Thomas G. Osborn, 




55 


Bridgehampton, 


Aaron Hunt, Jr., 




109 


Sag Harbour, 


Seymour Landon, 




331 


Riverhead and Jamesport, 


J. Sanrlford, 




136 


Cutchogue and Southold. 


Ezra Jaggcr, 




141 


Orient and Grecnport, . 


} Bezaleel Flowe, 

( George VV. Woodrnl 


r, .' 


61 
50 


Bcllport and Fireplace, . 






39 

2846 


Total, , 


31 Preachers, 




66J9 



416 



APPENDIX. 



The African M. E. C 


'hurch. 


Societies. 


Members. 


Brooklyn, 


209 


Flatbush, 


34 


Jamaica, 


2(5 


Flushing, 


69 


Cedar Swamp, 


70 


Jericho, , 


15 


Huntington, . 


52 


South, 


52 


Setauket, 


26 


Total, 


553 



Societies. 



Membt 



Williamsburgh, 


34 


Train's Meadow, 


20 


Flushing, 


59 


Lakeville, 


78 


Oysterbay, 


46 


Jerusalem, . . . 


47 


Stony Brook, 


7 


Islip and Smithtown, 


25 


Moriches and Mastick, 


21 


Sag Harbour, . 


50 



Total, 



387 



Besides these, there are several other African churches on 
the island, that are distinguished by different names, and have 
no connection with each other or either of the preceding de- 
nominations: As, 

The Free Union M. E. Church, at Williamsburgh, con. 



taming 40 members. 



The As bury African M. E. Church, and Mount Zion Afri- 
can Protestant M. Church, both in Brooklyn. 



It is really a matter of regret and lamentation, to see the 
coloured people, of whom there are now more than 8,000 on 
Long Island, so completely cut up and divided in their reli- 
gious associations. Instead of combining their efforts for the 
intellectual, moral, and religious improvement and elevation 
of their race, we find them separated into four or five distinct 
communions, professing essentially the same doctrinal princi- 
ples, and differing only on matters of minor importance. 
And there is reason to believe, that some of thesp separations 
at least, have originated in a desire of preeminence, which 
could not be gratified, but at the expense of schism. How- 
ever painful the statement of these facts may be, it is due to 
the christian public, who are often called upon to aid in erect- 
ing an African church, which their sympathies for this injured 
race would strongly incline them to patronise, when, if the 
whole truth were disclosed, it would be found to be a rival or- 
ganization, originating in secession, and designed to be built 
up at the expense of the older African churches. Thus we 
have one independent organization, professing to have a 
bishop, with several itinerating and local preachers under him, 
whose entire constituency consists of 3 small churches, the 



APPENDIX. 



417 



aggregate number of whose members is less than 100; and 
these standing, side by side, with those very societies from which 
they have seceded. The coloured people have yet to learn, 
that the efforts of others to raise them to respectability and 
usefulness, will be vain, till they can be united among them- 
selves. Of them it is emphatically true, that "iw union there 
is strength." The " African Methodist Episcopal Church," 
appear lo be laudably engaged in promoting the interests of 
their people. They publish a periodical in New York, which 
is sustained entirely by contributions from their own members; 
and many of the articles are very respectable. They have 
recently held a Convention in Philadelphia, at which they re- 
solved to establish a literary institution for ministerial educa- 
tion, as soon as funds can be obtained. Such praiseworthy 
efforts deserve encouragement, and substantial aid. 

No statistics have been obtained of other sections of the 
Methodist church. 



Baptist Church. 



Congregations. 



First Church, Brooklyn, 

Pierpont street, " 

South, 

Williamsburgh, 

Newt<»wn, 

Oysterhay, 

Cold Spring, 

Coram, 

Grcenport, 

Sag Harbour, 

Total, 



10 



Ministers. 



■Membs. 



James L. Hodge, . 

E. E. L. Taylor, . 

Vacant, 

A Ian son P. Mason, 

Vacant, 

Marmuduke Earle, 

Earle, 

Vacant, 
Alvan Ackley, 



650 

350 

70 

160 

21 

60 



351 
93 



1563 



SWEDENBORGIANS. 



Congregations. 


Ministers. 


Membs. 


Rivcihea-l, .... 
Bating Hollow, 


M. M. Carll, 


9 
24 




Total, .... 


33 



418 



APPENDIX. 



Roman Catholics. 



Congregations. 


Ministers. 


Com'' ta. 


St. James', Brooklyn, 


Charles Smith, 


4000 


St. Paul's, 


Nicolas O'Donnell, 


2000 


Church of the Assumption, 
Kent Avenue, (not dedicated,) ' 


D3POn 


1700 


Hugh McGuire, 




Holy Trinity, Williamsburgh, . 


John Rafeiner, 


500 


St. Mary's, " 


Sylvester Malone, 


500 


Jamaica, 






Flushing, 






Smith town, 






Sag Harbour, 






Total, .... 


8700 



The statistics of other religious denominations have not 
been received. 



No. II.— TEMPERANCE DOCUMENT. 

In the preceding history, the reader has probably remarked, 
that very little has been said in relation to the Temperance 
reformation. This has arisen, not from any indifference to 
this great and glorious work, nor from the want of materials 
to show, that here, as well as elsewhere, the temperance cause 
has been successful ; but merely from the fact, that there has 
been little to distinguish its progress, from what has been 
realized in general throujf.iout the country. In years gone 
by, intemperance had multiplied its victims on the island ; — 
here as everywhere else, every grade of the vice might be 
found, from the occasional dram-drinker or the habitual tip- 
pler, down to the daily inebriate and helpless sot. Here were 
taverns and grog-shops, at almost every turn in the road, to 
help on the work of death. And here, too, were apologists 
and shameless advocates for the indulgence of a practice, that 
is sure, in nine instances out of ten, to convert a man into a 
brute. And these evils, to a certain extent, still exist on 
Long Island. But it is also true, that here the temperance 
reformation has found many zealous advocates, and their 
labours have been crowned with great success. And though 
the cause cannot be said to be triumphant, and much remains 
to be accomplished, yet past success has been sufficient to 
encourage future efforts. And the friends of temperance will 
not be true to themselves, nor to the cause to which they have 
pledged themselves, if they do not press on to the victory. 

But the special object of adverting to this subject in this 



APPENDIX. 419 

place, is to introduce and preserve a " Document," which will 
show, that some of the ministers and churches of Long Island 
were among the earliest pioneers in this benevolent work. 
In the summer of 1811, the attention of many individuals had 
been called up to the subject of intemperance, by the perusal 
of Dr. Rush's "Inquiry," which had been extensively circu- 
lated through the country. At a meeting of the Presbytery 
of Long Island at Aquebogue, Nov. 5th of that year, a sermon 
was preached in reference to this great and prevailing evil. 
On the succeeding day, a committee was appointed to take 
the subject into consideration ; who prepared and reported the 
following resolution, and the accompanying pastoral letter, 
which were unanimously adopted. 

" Resolved unanimously, — That hereafter ardent spirits and 
wine shall constitute no part of our entertainment at any of 
our public meetings; and that it be recommended to their 
churches, not to treat Christian brethren or others with ardent 
spirits as a part of hospitality in friendly visits." 

Pastoral Letter. 

" The Presbyter)/ of Long Island to the Churches under 
their care : — 

" Beloved Brethren, — The Presbytery at their present 
meeting have taken into their consideration the awful preva- 
lence of the sin of intemperance, in our congregations and 
through the country ; and being deeply impressed with a 
sense of the destructive influence of this crying sin, upon the 
property, reputation, bodies and souls of men, have thought 
it their duty to co-operate with their fellow-citizens, in various 
parts of our land, who, at this time, appear to be extensively 
waking up to this subject, in attempting to arrest the progress, 
and if possible, destroy the existence of this formidable enemy. 

" Under these impressions, they feel convinced of the pro- 
priety and importance of ministers and Christians giving the 
decided weight of their example, against this land-defiling, 
God-provoking, and soul-destroying abomination. On this 
ground, they have adopted the above resolution, which, for 
themselves, they are determined conscientiously to observe. 

"We are persuaded, brethren, that a strict observance of 
this simple means is very practicable, and will powerfully 
tend to the most salutary consequences. Therefore we most 
earnestly exhort you, as you regard the virtue and respecta- 
bility and usefulness of individuals — the peace and happiness 
of families — the welfare of society — the salvation of precior «* 




420 appendix. 

souls — the honour of religion and the glory of God, immedi- 
ately to unite with us, in carrying into effect the above recom- 
mendation ; and in using your utmost influence to prevail 
upon others to do the same. Wishing you grace, mercy and 
peace, we are, dearly beloved, 

" Your brethren and servants in the gospel of Christ." 

The writer knows that this pastoral letter was followed 
with most salutary effects, on some individuals and churches. 
How extensive and permanent the change produced was, he 
has not the means of determining, as he removed from the 
Island the following year. But he is informed, that from that 
time, the meetings of that Presbytery ceased to be disgraced 
with the intoxicating beverage ; and not a few continued with- 
out wavering, to maintain the ground taken in this resolution, 
till it was more effectually secured by the formation of socie- 
ties, on the pledge of total abstinence. The step here taken, 
at the first onset upon the enemy, with the then existing 
customs of society in their full force, must be allowed to have 
been one of no small importance, and could not fail to have a 
favourable influence in preparing the way for more advanced 
and energetic operations. It is only in this point of view, 
that the subject is here adverted to, and credit claimed for the 
Presbytery of Long Island, as being one of the first to move 
in the great work of reform, that has blessed the present age. 

A letter recently received from a member of the Presbytery, 
contains the following remarks : — " The above resolution was 
afterwards incorporated among their standing rules." And it 
is added, in relation to that and some other means employed 
at the same time, '* Much good has resulted here and else- 
where, from this early effort to arrest the progress of intern- 
perance. It did much to prepare the way for the glorious 
reformation, which has since taken place." 



GREAT FIRE AT SAG-HARBOUR. 

Just as the last sheet of this work was going to press, the intelligence 
arrived, of a very disastrous conflagration at Sag Harbour, on the even- 
ing of Nov. 13th, in which 35 dwelling houses, o7 stores and warehouses, 
besides stables and barns, with a largo portion of their contents, were des- 
troyed, in the most compact part of the village, and the principal seat of 
bu>incss. The amount of loss is, of course, not yet accurately ascer- 
tained, but is supposed to fail little short of $200,001). 



THE END. 



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